We have allowed mosques in all regions to be opened, but still maintaining physical distancing (has been advised).Mataram, W Nusa Tenggara (ANTARA) - Chief of the Indonesian Mosque Council (DMI), Jusuf Kalla, has said that mosques across the country will be opened for tarawih prayer during the fasting month of Ramadan under stringent health protocols.
"We have allowed mosques in all regions to be opened, but still maintaining physical distancing (has been advised)," Kalla said after a meeting with West Nusa Tenggara Governor here on Tuesday.
This year, Ramadan will again be observed amid the COVID-19 pandemic, but the situation has changed from the previous year, when Moslems were asked to perform prayers at home, he added.
“But, it is still on the condition that people will wear masks. This is the difference from the previous (Ramadan). As malls are opened, why shouldn't we open mosques," he remarked.
Kalla stressed on strict implementation of health protocols, including physical distancing, wearing masks, washing hands, and all worshippers bringing their own mats.
Mosque supervisors can bar people from entering the mosque, if they do not adhere to the health protocols, he said.
Kalla also called on supervisors to disinfect mosques.
"Public places and malls are being opened by applying stringent health protocols, and so will the mosques," he said. (INE)
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Translator: Nur Imansyah, Sri Haryati
Editor: Suharto
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