The policy was stipulated in Circular Letter Number 8 of 2022, which was signed by Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas on March 29, 2022.
"Officials and State Civil Apparatus are prohibited from holding or attending mass iftar, sahur, and/or Eid al-Fitr Open House activities," Minister Qoumas said in a written statement received here on Thursday.
However, the ministry urged members of the general public holding mass iftar to continuously implement the health protocols to avoid the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
Muslims were also encouraged to do more good deeds and practices during Ramadhan, such as tarawih prayers, iktikaf, tadarus Al Quran, recitation, zakat, infaq, alms, and waqf, while still adhering to the health protocols.
The collection and distribution of zakat mal, zakat fitrah, infaq, and charity by the National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas), Amil Zakat Institutions (LAZ), and the community must be done with due regard to the health protocols.
The administrators and managers of masjids and mushalas must follow the Circular of the Minister of Religion regarding worship or religious activities in places of worship during community activities restrictions, in accordance with the level set in the respective regions.
The managers of masjids or mushalas can allow up to 100 percent attendance in places of worship located in areas enforcing Level 1 community activities restrictions, 75 percent for Level 2, and 50 percent for Level 3.
They are also required to appoint officers to ensure information is disseminated properly, as well as make sure that the health protocols are followed by the people during worship.
The circular also calls for preachers to contribute to instilling values of faith, piety, unity, harmony, the benefit of the people, and nationality.
They have been encouraged to educate the public in a wise and polite way, in accordance with the guidance of the Qur'an and Sunnah, and not bring up the problem of differences in points of view (khilafiyah).
"The COVID-19 vaccination can be carried out during Ramadhan by following health guidelines," the letter explained.
The ministry has allowed takbir (call of praises) to be performed in masjids or prayer rooms. In the previous circular, those activities were advised to be conducted at home.
Meanwhile, the Eid prayer in 1 Syawal 1443H/2022M can be conducted in a mosque or in an open field by adhering to the health protocols.
"The use of loudspeakers refers to the Circular of the Religious Affairs Ministry Number 5 of 2022 about Guidelines for the Use of Loudspeakers in Masjids and Musala," the circular stated.
Related news: Capacity limit lifted for worship places in Level 1 PPKM regions
Related news: Gov't urges people to comply with health protocols during Ramadan
Related news: Task Force reminds people to follow health protocols during Ramadan
Translator: Asep F, Mecca Yumna
Editor: Sri Haryati
Copyright © ANTARA 2022
