'This Idul Fitri is really tough financially'

Muslims will celebrate the Idul Fitri festivities on Nov. 3 and Nov. 4. The Jakarta Post talked to a few people about the meaning of the celebration amid tougher economic times following the rising price of basic commodities due to the Oct. 1 fuel prices hike.

Ferry Areza, in his 30s, works as a civil servant with the Jakarta administration's information and data analysis division. He lives with his family in Tangerang:

This year's Idul Fitri is really tough, financially, on me. I have to accept the reality that many of my plans and dreams have been dashed following the fuel prices rise, which led to the soaring prices of basic commodities and other products.

I've had to delay my plans to renovate my house and purchase a new car after the celebration, since I will have no money for those things. That's made my fasting month really a challenge to keep my anger in check.

I hope that the economic situation in the country gets better in the future and the price of crude oil on the world market declines. That's my prayer during this holy time.

Tinia , in her 40s, works at a city-owned museum in Kota, West Jakarta. She lives in Ciganjur, South Jakarta with her family:

We'll celebrate this year's Idul Fitri modestly; no big festivities. None of us in the office received holiday bonuses this year. Instead, we have to spend money to provide bonuses for our bosses. It's a really difficult time for me.

I have really felt exhausted in coping with so many hardships and pressure in the workplace. Maybe it will be better if I ask to retire early. -- The Jakarta Post