Indonesian Embassy Islamabad Hosts Eid Prayer, Community Gathering

ISLAMABAD: (Web Desk) – The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Islamabad held Eid prayers and a festive Halal Bihalal gathering for the Indonesian community, in collaboration with the Ramadhan Committee of the Indonesian Students Association (PBR PPMI) Pakistan.

Preparations began immediately after the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee confirmed Eid al-Fitr would fall on Saturday. The Embassy arranged special decorations, traditional Indonesian Eid menus, and secured the venue for the prayer, while the takbir echoed across the premises.

To ease access for students from the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI), the Embassy provided three minibuses for transportation into the Diplomatic Enclave.

Islamabad Committee to Announce Shawwal Moon Sighting Today

M. Irham Amin, Chairman of the Muhammadiyah Special Branch (PCIM) in Pakistan, led the Eid prayer as Imam, while Ibnu Aqil Mahmud, Deputy Chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama Special Branch (PCINU) in Pakistan, delivered the sermon. Both organizations are among Indonesia’s largest Islamic institutions with millions of followers.

Indonesian Ambassador to Pakistan, Chandra W. Sukotjo, attended the prayer and gathering with his wife, Tamara Y. Sukotjo, alongside Embassy diplomats and staff, emphasizing the importance of engagement with the Indonesian community for public diplomacy.

Participants received coupons to enjoy traditional Indonesian dishes such as Lontong (compressed rice cakes) with Opor Ayam (coconut chicken curry), and snacks including Indomie noodles supplied by the local Indomie factory in Faisalabad.

“The Ambassador and Madam are like our parents. Celebrating Eid at the Embassy remedies our homesickness,” said Neng Yofa, an Indonesian student at IIUI.

The Eid gathering also featured competitions organized by the Ramadan Committee, including Nasyid performances, and speeches and MC contests in English and Arabic, allowing students to showcase their talents while celebrating their cultural heritage.