Eid al-Fitr in Indonesia is inseparable from the annual phenomenon called mudik. This homecoming tradition is so massive that millions of people endure long and exhausting journeys just to reunite with their families. The uniqueness of mudik in Indonesia makes it one of the most fascinating traditions in the country.
Mudik is a crucial period that triggers extensive economic activity across Indonesia. The phenomenon of mudik significantly boosts the transportation, hospitality, and consumer goods industries.
Transportation companies offer special deals, often at much higher prices. Mudik in Indonesia sees ticket prices surge up to three times their usual rates, with tickets selling out quickly. Merchants also experience increased demand, leading to a surge in sales.
Many large companies use Eid homecoming in Indonesia as an opportunity to promote their businesses by providing free transportation for employees and the community. They decorate buses with company posters and advertisements, turning this cultural event into a marketing strategy while also supporting travelers.
That’s just one of the many unique aspects of the mudik tradition in Indonesia. There are still many other unique aspects of Eid homecoming that you should know. Check out the following article!
The Origin of the Word and Meaning “Mudik”
As Eid in Indonesia approaches, discussions about mudik dominate media coverage. The government, particularly the Ministry of Transportation and law enforcement, work hard to ensure smooth travel during this period. But where does the term “mudik” come from?
In general, there is no definite answer. Etymologically, mudik meaning refers to term “mudik” is recorded in Indonesian Dictionary (KBBI), which means “(sailing, going) to the “udik” (upstream of the river, hinterland) or returning to the hometown.”
In Islamic teachings, there is no religious requirement for mudik in Indonesia. However, linguistically, the word “Eid al-Fitr”can be interpreted as “returning to purity,” symbolizing a return to one’s origins, including family and hometowns. Philosophically, migrants living in big cities usually return to their hometowns, known as “mudik.”
Brief History of Mudik in Indonesia
According to Umar Kayam (2002), initially, the tradition of mudik was a primordial custom of Javanese peasant communities that existed before the Majapahit kingdom. This activity was usually carried out to clean the ancestors’ graves and pray together to the gods in the spiritual realm.
However, with the influence of Islamic teachings, this tradition began to be displaced because it was considered an act of polytheism, especially if it was used to ask for help from deceased ancestors.
In the 1970s, as Jakarta became Indonesia’s economic hub, rural residents migrated to the capital for work. The long Eid holidays in Indonesia became their only chance to visit their hometowns, solidifying mudik as an Indonesian homecoming tradition.
Unique Aspects of Eid homecoming Tradition
Eid homecoming tradition is a special moment for many people in Indonesia. It’s not just about returning home; mudik holds various unique aspects that make it special.
1. Opportunity to Reunite with Family
Mudik in Indonesia provides a rare opportunity for families separated by distance to reunite. This moment is highly anticipated as it allows them to celebrate Eid together and strengthen family bonds.
One tradition that still exists during Eid al-Fitr is “Nyadran” tradition. This tradition is prevalent in three regencies in Pantura Java, namely Brebes, Tegal, and Slawi. This tradition involves visits from younger generations to older generations such as parents, aunts, uncles, siblings, and so on.
During the visit, they bring gifts such as sugar, tea, and snacks. Visits are made both individually and in groups with other relatives.
2. Pilgrimage Ritual to Ancestors’ Graves
For some people, mudik is more than just a trip home; it includes visiting ancestral graves. This is a highly respected tradition believed to bring blessings and protection to the travelers.
One example is the Kenduri Makam in Aceh. This is a tradition inherited from generation to generation by the residents of Pasi Village in West Aceh Regency. This tradition is held on the 12th day after Eid al-Fitr celebration.
People visit the graves and hold a communal meal at the family burial site. Those attending the Kenduri bring various Acehnese dishes to be enjoyed together after the event.
3. Bustle at Transit Points
During Eid homecoming in Indonesia, bus terminals, train stations, seaports, and airports become bustling with travelers. Mudik Indonesia brings an unmistakable festive atmosphere to these transit points.
The spirited atmosphere of Eid can be felt everywhere, with people flocking to their hometowns.
At the port, ferries transport travelers to their destination islands. And at the airport, planes land and take off carrying travelers from various parts of Indonesia.
4. Creativity in Transportation
The demand for transport during mudik in Indonesia leads to creative solutions. Local mudik is an alternative for those traveling shorter distances. Many travelers also modify vehicles for extra comfort and capacity.
For example, on buses, additional seats are installed to accommodate more passengers. There are also buses with a “double-decker” system that provides two levels of seating. On trains, additional carriages are added to increase passenger capacity.
Even private vehicles undergo modifications, usually simpler ones. For example, private cars are modified by installing roof racks to carry luggage or folding rear seats to increase passenger space. Motorcycles are also modified, with additional luggage racks or carrying extra passengers.
5. Solidarity and Mutual Assistance
Mudik highlights the strong sense of community in Indonesia. Many organizations and individuals provide free mudik transportation, accommodations, and roadside assistance for travelers facing difficulties. Amidst the long and challenging journey of mudik, many people voluntarily help fellow travelers.
This assistance can come in various forms, such as providing temporary accommodation, distributing food and drinks, or helping travelers experiencing difficulties with their vehicles. The spirit of mutual assistance and caring for each other is a common sight during the mudik season.
6. Celebration of Cultural Diversity
As a country rich in cultural diversity, Eid homecoming tradition showcases the celebration of this diversity. Each region celebrates homecoming in Indonesia in unique ways.
For example, Malaman in Lampung is a tradition performed on the night of takbir, which falls a day before Eid al-Fitr. On that night, children and teenage boys in Lampung usually gather coconut shells in their home yards and stack them up to a height of about one meter or more.
As Eid approaches, the unused coconut shells from the process of cooking rendang become more abundant. After being stacked, the coconut shells are then burned so that the fire grows larger, and the children cheerfully welcome it.
Eid Homecoming in the Modern Era
Despite technological advancements, mudik Indonesia remains an irreplaceable cultural tradition. Mudik meaning Indonesia is deeply rooted in emotional and familial connections that cannot be replaced by digital communication.
About the mudik tradition is still maintained because it has not become part of the fundamental culture in Indonesia, especially in rural areas. Migrants are willing to queue for train or plane tickets just to arrive at their hometowns before Eid.
However, the mudik tradition remains difficult to replace with technology because it serves several important purposes. First, to seek blessings by visiting and gathering with family and neighbors. Second, as psychological therapy for refreshing from work routines. Third, to remember origins and introduce descendants to their hometowns. And fourth, to show off as someone who has succeeded in seeking fortune in big cities.
Conclusion
Mudik in Indonesia is more than just a journey—it symbolizes family values, solidarity, and cultural heritage. Although modernization influences traditions, the spirit of homecoming Indonesia will always endure, ensuring that mudik Indonesia continues to be a cherished annual tradition
In addition, Eid homecoming has become a unique tradition that reflects the values of family and mutual cooperation in Indonesian tradition. Although modernization brings various influences, the spirit of Eid homecoming is believed to always be preserved. Hopefully, Eid homecoming can continue to proceed safely, comfortably, and bring blessings to all parties involved.
References:
https://journal.uny.ac.id/index.php/ptbb/article/view/30754
https://jarssh.com/ojs/index.php/jarssh/article/download/56/55
https://media.neliti.com/media/publications/5034-ID-mudik-dan-keretakan-budaya.pdf
https://ejournal.stais.ac.id/index.php/trq/article/download/172/91
https://proceedings.radenfatah.ac.id/index.php/lc-TiaRS/article/view/755/562
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