Looking at Idul Fitri

'Mudik' or the act of returning to one's hometown for Idul Fitri is probably one of the most important events for Indonesians as many empty out the major cities and sometimes out of Java (the world's most populated island) to their families in other parts of Indonesia. In fact, it takes place for more than a week as millions of people travel across Indonesia using various modes of transport (ferry, buses, cars, planes, motorcycles)

For some, going home means stuck in the traffic jam for more than 24 hours (especially on the highway linking Jakarta to Central Java), squeezing for a seat at the bus terminal or the mad scramble and crazy prices of air tickets during the festive period. For others on the motorcycles, the journey home may be a perilous one. Fatigue and the blatant disregard for traffic rules and impatience in overtaking are but some of the causes of road accidents during this period. (Yes, the road conditions here are really TERRIBLE.) Most of the times, it may be the motorcyclists at fault for doing 'stupid' and dangerous things, like to overtake from the left or overtaking on a single carriageway filled with speeding vehicles on both sides. Yet, drivers cannot be exempted from the blame when they speed and weave through the traffic, as if they own the road, protected by their 'tin can'.

For the 15,000 odd policemen, it means forgoing their holidays as their temporary homes can be found in tents located along major intersections. For some Indonesian 'traffic advisors', they reach areas where the police cannot reach, like some of the some junctions connecting smaller towns. But often for a small 'donation' where the only words uttered are 'terus, terus'.

At the same time, Idul Fitri means cash registers ringing for some. For hotels across Indonesia, the massive exodus of Indonesians means that some hotels are packed with families visiting their hometowns or trying to avoid housework as many domestic helpers return to their hometowns during this period. The sign 'Penuh' or full room occupancy is often a common sight during this period. MPVs and saloon cars with license plates from all across Indonesia (AB - Yogya, B - Jakarta, BK - Bali and etc.) and children running around the place are just scenes not so different between Hotel Gunung Mas and Wisma MMUGM.

For the bule (Indonesian term for foreigner), this festive period is probably not festive for them at all. With most of the drinking holes closed for the weekend and clubs not yet open, it seems that the best option is the friendly Circle K for a good old Bintang.

For me, i only write what i see.