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Archive photo: Minister of Religious Affairs, Fachrul Razi (middle), Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs, Zainut Tauhid (left), and director general of Islamic Community Guidance, Kamaruddin Amir (right). (ANTARA FOTO/HO-Ministry of Religious Affairs-ROMADANYL)

Minister of Religious Affairs, Fachrul Razi, has asked people to heed the government's appeal to not return to their hometowns and to spend Eid al-Fitr at home to minimize the risk of COVID-19 spread.

"Do not go to your hometowns, carry out your Eid prayers at home, and celebrate at home. Maintain communication via social media and keep (following) health protocols," he requested citizens on Tuesday in Jakarta, after attending a virtual meeting on the preparations for this year's Eid al-Fitr.

The ministry had issued an appeal on May 12, 2020, with regard to the celebration of Eid al-Fitr for the year 1441 of the Islamic calendar.


The minister said he believes that, at the moment, it would not be possible to relax restrictions on social and religious activities as it is feared that could lead to a surge in coronavirus cases.

Therefore, he appealed to citizens to comply with government regulations on preventing COVID-19 spread by refraining from organizing religious activities involving large congregations, including the Eid prayers.

"We should obey Law number 6 of 2018 regarding local quarantine, restrictions on religious activities, (prayers) to be carried out at home," he urged.

"The threat of COVID-19 must not interfere with the celebration of the day of victory. Do not forget to share your care with those who are less fortunate,” he added. (ANTARA)