Zul Trio Anggono

There is an annual tradition in the Kepaon Muslim kampung in Denpasar, Bali, of performing the Megibung (having a meal together from one giant tray) for breaking of the fast.

This tradition is observed by Muslims in the last 10 days of Ramadan at the Muhajirin Mosque in the area.

The Megibung is conducted after people finish reciting 30 verses of the Quran.

“This tradition has been observed since the establishment of the Kepaon kampung and the elders have always performed this tradition every year,” said Padani, one of the organizers.

Megibung is performed after the Maghrib (dusk) prayer. During Megibung, each group of six to seven people face a giant tray of rice and side dishes.

“It’s up to the people to cook anything. It can be beef, chicken, fish, eggs, or other things, but there should be urap (vegetables served with shredded coconut) becausethat’s the typical dish of Kepaon,” Padani said.

He explained that Megibung was meant to strengthen the bonds between people, both Muslims and Hindus, in the Kepaon area. [yan]