Jakarta – Speaker of the House of Representatives (DPR) Puan Maharani, in a written statement here on Monday, urged religious figures to assist the government in persuading Muslims to pray at home with their families during Eid al-Adha 2021.
Maharani made the request since she believes religious figures should ensure that the Eid al-Adha celebrations prioritize public safety and health in accordance with the implementation of emergency community activity restriction (PPKM).
Despite the House speaker being fully sentient of the Muslims’ eagerness to perform the Eid al-Adha prayer at mosques, but given the dangers of the pandemic, citizens are advised to prioritize their and their families’ health and safety.
“Believe me, I feel the same. However, we need to be aware of the fact that we can jeopardize our and our families’ lives. The threat posed by the COVID-19 infection still looms large over us, and we may become its victims,” she stated.
The former coordinating minister for human development and cultural affairs admitted to the increase in the risk of COVID-19 infection on account of the spread of the Delta variant, with infection rate recorded as being seven folds higher.
Hence, Maharani expressed concerns over the repercussions of a large group of people gathering around in a red zone, especially if children and elderly were to be involved, since the two groups are the most vulnerable to COVID-19.
To this end, she urged religious figures to encourage Muslims to pray at home. She further suggested that any social activity and family gathering be conducted virtually akin to the practice she had followed with her extended family.
The PDI Perjuangan Party politician also reminded citizens to not embark on the homecoming trip (mudik) during Eid al-Adha to stem the spread of COVID-19.
In addition, Maharani requested that the animal sacrificial activity (qurban) be conducted in strict adherence to health protocols and ensure that the equipment used during the process is sterile. She also called upon citizens to not watch the activity.
Source: Antara News