TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan and Deputy Governor Ahmad Riza Patria extended Eid al-Fitr greetings to Jakarta residents on the latter’s Instagram account @rizapatria.

Anies Baswedan said in the video post that this year marked the second year Muslims in the capital celebrated Eid amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are all aware the Eid atmosphere instigates the feeling of longing for silaturahmi (communal bonds) with our loved ones. With our parents, with our families back home,” he said in the video uploaded on Thursday, May 13, 2021.

The governor said the people remained in a situation obliging them to protect themselves and restrained their mobility to prevent further transmission of COVID-19, thus they must utilize technology and resort to virtual silaturahmi.

“That is why during the celebrations it is hoped that we keep the silaturahmi intact, but by using technology, reducing direct interactions by touching,” he said.

Riza Patria, meanwhile, hoped Jakarta residents would continue to comply with the health protocols to facilitate the process of returning life in the capital to normal.

The deputy governor added he was also grateful that worship activities during Ramadan could gradually took place at mosques despite the strict health protocols.

“We appreciate all elements of society who struggle together to adhere to the health protocols,” Riza Patria said.

Read: Eid al-Fitr: Jokowi Also Greets Christians on Ascension Day of Jesus Christ

ADAM PRIREZA