T

he Jakarta administration plans to hold mass iftar (breaking-of-the-fast meal) events at National Monument (Monas) Park in Central Jakarta during Ramadhan.

Deputy Governor Sandiaga Uno said on Friday the administration had been inspired by the mass iftar events in the two holy cities of Islam, Mecca and Medina, where people who needed to break their fast had food served to them.

“We want to make the iftar events like those in Mecca and Medina, so we will take care of the iftar ourselves. People should not fight to get food to break their fast; they should be served,” Sandiaga said on Friday as reported by kompas.com.

“So, in Monas there will be big events to break our fast together. People will not need to wait in line. They can just sit down and the food will be served. That’s how we will respect and humanize our friends,” he said.

He said after breaking their fast, attendees would be invited to recite the shalawat (salutation to Prophet Muhammad), zikr (chanting in praise of God) and participate in a mass tarawih (evening Ramadhan prayers).

He urged wealthy families and companies to participate in the events.