Mass iftar unites 10,000 Muslims in Jakarta

Thousands of Muslims gathered at the Istiqlal Grand Mosque in Jakarta for a mass iftar, a meal to break the fast during Ramadan. This event is held each year and is a significant occasion for many. The mosque's charity committee, along with local vendors, provides about 4,500 free meals each day throughout Ramadan. Ahmad Mulyadi, one of the event organizers, noted that the number of attendees often exceeds the food available, but they strive to help as much as possible. On Thursday, around 10,000 people took part in the mass iftar at the mosque’s courtyard. Many attendees brought their own meals and enjoyed sharing food in the communal setting. For some, breaking their fast at the mosque is a cherished experience. Siti Hafnita Siregar Sukawati, a 77-year-old widow, expressed her joy in being part of the gathering. She feels it enhances her faith compared to breaking her fast alone at home. For others, like motorcycle taxi driver Mohammad Nur, finding a place to break their fast while working can be challenging. The mosque offers a welcoming environment for those far from home. Tenri Jeka, a vendor who provides nearly 1,000 meals daily, shared that she doesn't always make a profit during Ramadan, but her focus is on seeking God's blessings. Her dedication to helping others reflects the spirit of community during this holy month.