Friday prayers resume at Jakarta mosques after shut down in wake of COVID-19 pandemic

Muslims in some parts of Indonesia were able to attend Friday prayers as authorities slowly reopen mosques which had been closed for weeks to curb the spread of coronavirus infections in the world's most populous Muslim nation. Religious Affairs Minister Fachrul Razi on Friday announced official guidelines related to the reopening of worship facilities such as mosques, churches and temples.

Worshippers usually pray shoulder to shoulder, and they huddle, hug and shake hands once the prayer is over. Cheek to cheek kisses are also common, but the government's health guidelines are changing tradition. Muslims in Jakarta's satellite city of Bekasi prayed at least one meter (yard) apart without shaking hands during shortened sermons.

Several members of police and soldiers ensured worshippers observed health protocols, such as social distancing and wearing a mask. Bambang Soemantri, who attended the prayers, said he felt joy in finally being able to pray at the mosque after weeks of praying at home.

"With the health protocol applied, I think this is not something silly or reckless in an emergency situation like this," said Soemantri. Indonesia recorded over 24,500 cases as of Thursday with nearly 1,500 deaths, the highest fatalities in Southeast Asia. For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks.

But the virus is highly contagious and can be spread by those with mild or no visible symptoms. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and could lead to death.

(Image credit: Representative Image)