Traditional Eid Clothing Shopping Returns to Enliven Tanah Abang Market

Jakarta — The atmosphere of Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah is becoming increasingly palpable in Tanah Abang Market, Central Jakarta. As the final weeks of Ramadan approach, visitor numbers at this shopping centre have risen significantly.

Amid the crowded market corridors, people walk quickly whilst carrying increasingly full shopping bags. Most arrive with the same objective: to find new clothing to wear when celebrating Eid al-Fitr with family.

The atmosphere is most noticeable in Block B, known as the centre for Muslim fashion sales. During the daytime, the corridors are already filled with buyers moving back and forth between stalls.

“Those wanting to buy abayas, please come!” called out one merchant from behind a rack of clothes in various colours.

“One hundred thousand rupiah for three!” they shouted to passing visitors.

These calls continue to ring out repeatedly, blending with the footsteps of shoppers and creating the characteristic Tanah Abang atmosphere before Eid.

Beneath a large blue sign reading “Block B – Wholesale Centre”, the stream of visitors moves continuously without stopping.

Some carry plastic bags containing headscarves and clothing, whilst others pause briefly to negotiate prices whilst examining fabric quality.

Meanwhile, in the main staircase area, some people rest momentarily. Some wait for family members still shopping, whilst others sit catching their breath after moving between stalls.

Some are also seen busily looking at their mobile phone screens whilst holding shopping bags already quite heavy from gathering Eid necessities.

For some visitors, the journey to Tanah Abang is not merely about finding clothing. They come with a habit practised for many years: purchasing new clothes to wear on Eid.

One visitor assessed that this activity has been ongoing for a long time and has become part of family tradition.

“It’s just become a habit from way back,” she said when met at the location on Monday (9 March 2026). “On normal days I rarely buy clothes, only when I really need to.”

She added that outside the Eid period, she rarely purchases new clothing.

“Unless I really need something or there’s an event. So Eid is usually the time to get new clothes,” she said.

Kharisma said she has practised the habit of buying new clothes for Eid since childhood.

According to her, this experience has continued through to now when she has her own family.