VOINews, Bandung: In a heartwarming initiative, the West Java Provincial Government organized a free mass wedding as part of the 2024 West Java Festival (WJF), bringing together 37 couples who had successfully completed the necessary administrative requirements. The event, which took place in Bandung on Saturday, showcased the government's commitment to inclusivity and community welfare.
"The mass wedding is part of the 2024 WJF series of events. This is a government program to ensure that marriages are officially recognized according to religious practices," said Bey Machmudin, Acting Governor of West Java, during the event. He emphasized the importance of legal and religious recognition in marriage, ensuring that couples start their new life journey with the proper documentation and blessings.
Bey further explained that the West Java Festival aims to engage all segments of society, and this year, the inclusion of the mass wedding was a way to extend happiness to the people. Couples from 26 districts and cities across West Java participated in the event, reflecting the province's diverse cultural and social fabric.
"This event is for everyone—for cultural enthusiasts, historians, and the general public. Through this mass wedding, we want to share happiness with the community," Bey added, highlighting the festival's broad appeal and its focus on cultural and social unity.
The mass wedding was completely free for the participating couples, with all costs covered by the provincial government. In addition, each couple received a cash gift of IDR 790,000 in celebration of the 79th anniversary of West Java Province. This gesture underscored the government's support for the newlyweds and its desire to contribute to their future happiness and prosperity.
"I hope this marriage brings joy and that the brides and grooms are blessed with happiness and sustenance," Bey remarked, expressing his best wishes to the couples. His words reflected the spirit of the festival—celebrating life, love, and community through meaningful initiatives.
During the event, Bey also took the opportunity to offer advice to the newlyweds on maintaining harmony in their marriages. He emphasized the importance of good communication and mutual understanding as the foundation for a happy and prosperous family life. His counsel was not just practical but also a reminder of the values that underpin strong and lasting relationships.
"We remind you to avoid online loans and quick-money schemes like online gambling. I hope you always remind each other to stay on the right path," Bey advised, stressing the importance of financial responsibility and ethical conduct in marriage. His words were a call to the couples to build their future on trust, respect, and shared values.
Bey's message to the newlyweds concluded with a hope that they would lead a life filled with love and understanding, steering clear of negative influences that could harm their marital harmony. "Avoid harsh words, don't be hard on your partner, and always be understanding and empathetic towards each other," he urged, reinforcing the importance of kindness and mutual respect in a successful marriage.
The mass wedding at the West Java Festival 2024 was not just a celebration of love but also a powerful statement of the government's role in fostering social harmony and supporting the well-being of its people. Through such initiatives, the West Java Provincial Government continues to demonstrate its commitment to creating a society where every citizen is valued and supported./ANTARA/VOI
