Thousands Join Torchlight Parade to Welcome Islamic New Year

Thousands of residents and Islamic boarding school students in Tawang District, Tasikmalaya City, took to the streets on Monday night (15/6) for a torchlight parade to welcome the Islamic New Year 1448 Hijriah. Participants walked a 5-kilometre route while chanting salawat and takbir, accompanied by traditional bedug drums, bamboo cannons known as bedil lodong, and fireworks. The procession included participants ranging from kindergarten and primary school pupils to secondary school students, university attendees, and parents. Ajat Sumedi, head of RW 13 in Kampung Ciranjang, said the celebration was more vibrant than the previous year, with residents from numerous villages joining the parade. Ust Ujang from the Sabillul Huda Islamic Boarding School in Cikalang noted that the participants remained enthusiastic throughout the walk despite the distance, and the event featured attractions such as fire-breathing displays that entertained both marchers and passing motorists. KH Amunudin Bustomi, Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) Tasikmalaya City, stated that the 1 Muharam 1448 Hijriah celebration served as an important momentum to promote Islamic teachings and strengthen intergenerational bonds, symbolising tolerance among citizens.