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Benhil Market empty of Ramadan snack sellers amid COVID-19 pandemic
Benhil Market in Central Jakarta, which is typically abuzz with activity during Ramadan, was quiet on Friday afternoon, the first day of the holy month, as food vendors and customers stayed away amid the COVID-19 outbreak.
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A quiet Benhil Market in Central Jakarta is seen on the first day of Ramadan on Friday. (Tempo/Bram Setiawan)
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a href="Bendungan%20Hilir%20(Benhil)%20Market">Bendungan Hilir (Benhil) Market in Central Jakarta, which is typically abuzz with activity during Ramadan, was quiet on Friday afternoon, the first day of the holy month, as food vendors and customers stayed away amid the COVID-19 outbreak.
"Only this year has there been no [activity]," Bendungan Hilir subdistrict head Rida Mufrida told tempo.co on Friday.
Outside Ramadan, the area is popular for its many dining spots. During the holy month, the market attracts even greater crowds, with customers coming to buy takjil (breaking-of-the-fast snacks) and various other types of foods from its many vendors.
"It was the decision of the takjil market management to scrap [the annual activities at Benhil Market]. They are probably worried they won't be able to manage the crowds," said Rida.
According to Rida, many takjil sellers typically traveled to the market from other areas of the city to do business. "They are probably operating in their own areas now."
In response to the COVID-19 outbreak in the capital city, Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan has implemented large-scale social restrictions (PSBB) that will remain in place until May 22. Under the restrictions, restaurants and food sellers may only offer take-away services and must ensure patrons maintain a distance of at least 1 meter while queuing. They are also required to implement food hygiene and sanitation measures, such as providing hand washing facilities.
Although Benhil Market was empty, a number of vendors could still be seen selling takjil along Jl. Bendungan Hilir. "They are locals," said Rida, adding that all sellers were required to only sell take-away food, wear face masks and provide hand sanitizer.
During Ramadan, which will end on May 24, the governor has urged Muslims to conduct religious rituals, such as tarawih (evening Ramadan prayers), at home with their families, not in congregations. Jakartans have also been urged not to participate in the Idul Fitri mudik (exodus) in compliance with the government’s recent ban. (kes)
