As the crescent moon heralds the end of Ramadan, Indonesia witnesses an unprecedented movement of people. This year’s Eid al-Fitr marks not just the culmination of a holy month but also a record-breaking exodus as millions embark on their journey home.
The Great Migration Begins
The annual tradition of “mudik” sees a mass migration unparalleled in scale. Indonesians from all walks of life set out to reunite with families, turning cities into transient waypoints. This year, the exodus has started earlier, with people eager to avoid the last-minute rush and the inevitable gridlocks.
A Test of Patience and Endurance
The journey home is a testament to the Indonesian spirit. Aditya Nugraha’s 500 km trek from Jakarta to Palembang is just one among millions. The roads are arteries of anticipation, clogged with vehicles and stories of resilience. Ferry ports become temporary anchors of these nomadic souls, all waiting to sail towards familial shores.
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Record Numbers, Record Challenges
This year’s “mudik” is not just a logistical challenge but a cultural phenomenon. Over 193 million people are expected to travel, a staggering 56% increase from the previous year3. The government’s easing of travel restrictions has opened the floodgates to the largest human migration in Indonesia’s history.
Homeward Bound
As the nation moves, so does its heart. Eid al-Fitr’s exodus is more than a journey; it’s a pilgrimage of the soul. Indonesians are reminded that no matter how far they roam, the call of home is the strongest pull of all.
