During Ramadan, Indonesian Muslims are reminded to respect non-Muslims

The Indonesia Ulema Council (MUI), the country's main Muslim religious organisation, has reminded Islamic groups not to target restaurants and street food booths serving non-Muslims during Ramadan.

The Islamic holy month of Ramadan begins on April 2 and concludes on May 2-3 with the Eid al-Fitr feast. During Ramadan, Muslims in Indonesia fast from 4:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.

The MUI stated on March 28 that food establishments should not be compelled to close in order to respect people who do not have to fast, including Christians.

This declaration came after the council's branch in West Java province's Bekasi district attempted to prohibit restaurants, cafés, and booths from opening during Ramadan.

The Setara Institute for Democracy and Peace's deputy chairman, Bonar Tigor Naipospos, expressed gratitude for the MUI's proclamation.

"It is a good move that will help to strengthen tolerance among different religions in Indonesia," Naipospos said on March 29 to UCA News.

He stated that any move by hardliners to compel food outlets to close must be dealt with immediately.

The declaration was welcomed by Father Antonius Suyadi, chairman of the Jakarta Archdiocese's Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs Commission.

"It shows respect for other religions," Father Suyadi explained. "Catholics, likewise, should respect our Muslim brothers and sisters and give them mutual support during Ramadan."