Biak, Papua (ANTARA) - Some Indonesian Muslims in Sorido Village, Biak Numfor District of Papua, followed the tradition of releasing hot air balloons to celebrate Eid al-Fitr and express gratitude for the blessings bestowed by Allah.

The congregation held the balloon release ceremony that was borne witness by several hundred attendees at Al Mukminin Mosque following the Eid prayer and sermon on Wednesday.

Different groups of people comprising parents, teenagers, children, and the elderly watched the release of hot air balloons made of plastic and paper.

"Releasing a balloon is part of the traditions to enliven religious holidays here," Imam Soleh, leading the Eid prayer and also chairman of the local mosque, remarked.

Soleh expressed hope that the traditional release of air balloons would help to bring together the mosque congregation to meet one another after the Eid prayer and sermon.

Translator: Muhsidin, Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
Editor: Sri Haryati
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