Jakarta Muslims prepare for Ramadan under lockdown

Indonesia, the world’s most populous Muslim-majority nation, extended coronavirus restrictions for a further month on Thursday as the nation approaches Ramadan.

The holy month is due to begin with the new moon on Thursday evening.

The government announced it was extending the measures until May 22 as an attempt to curb the spread of the coronavirus in the capital Jakarta and across the country.

Shops and mosques remain closed while the government urged people to stay and pray at home.

Open-air markets were almost empty.

The effects of the restrictions were being felt by all businesses, especially the traditional markets which often gain a lot of revenue before and during Ramadan.

With the cancellation of traditional communal meals for the poor, large fast-breaking dinners with family and friends and cultural events after sunset, Muslims all around the world find themselves cut off from much of what makes the month special.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, that clear up in two to three weeks.

For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and could lead to death.