Banjarmasin and Banyuwangi are abuzz with activity as the Ramadan markets officially open, marking the beginning of this holy month celebrated by Muslims worldwide. On March 1, 2025, Governor Muhidin inaugurated the Pasar Wadai Ramadan, a special market centered on the traditions of food-sharing and community bonding. The market, held at the renowned 0-kilometer site of Banjarmasin, attracted citizens eager to partake not only those observing Ramadan but also many from different faiths.
Maria Yulianus, a local non-Muslim woman, expressed her excitement, saying, "I personally am not Muslim, but this moment is something I've been waiting for. For women like us, it’s easy to find good treats here." Her sentiments echo the growing spirit of tolerance and community within the city, as people of various backgrounds come together during Ramadan to celebrate and enjoy the offerings of the market.
The Pasar Wadai Ramadan is more than just about food; it embodies the cultural significance of Ramadan, honoring traditions handed down through generations. Customers not only hunt for delectable dishes but also enjoy the camaraderie of shared experiences. Rifka Christie, another local, eagerly shared her routine of visiting the market each Ramadan, particularly for popular snacks like kue ipau and refreshing beverages.
Simultaneously, across the island, Banyuwangi launched the "Ngerandu Buko" festival to kick off its Ramadan celebrations. The festival is named after the Osing phrase meaning 'waiting for sunset', and it reflects the community's zest for culinary exploration during the fasting month. Bupati Ipuk Fiestiandani stated, "Each Ramadan, we always support the organization of takjil markets across Banyuwangi’s districts. This is momentum to uplift the local economy." The markets are not only places to purchase food but also venues for social interaction, reflecting the vibrant spirit of the region.
More than 1,480 small and medium enterprises (UMKM) are participating across 78 different takjil market locations, with two to five markets per district. Bupati Ipuk emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness and ensuring smooth traffic flow during these events. He also encouraged shoppers to reduce plastic usage by bringing their shopping bags, advocating for environmental consciousness during the festive period.
The markets are strategically located at scenic spots like Pantai Marina Boom, which provide visitors not just with food options but also picturesque views, creating memorable experiences as they wait for the time to break their fast. Nita, who runs a beverage stall, reported significant sales on the very first day of the market, saying, "Alhamdulillah today is super busy! It’s my first time selling at the Ramadan Takjil Market. I hope to participate again next year." Her enthusiasm showcases the opportunities these markets provide for entrepreneurs.
The Ramadan markets cater to the diverse tastes of the community, with stalls featuring everything from traditional Indonesian dishes to modern snacks. Mila, another visitor, appreciated the market's accessibility and affordability, stating, "It's great to enjoy the beach atmosphere here at the Ramadan Takjil Market. The prices of the food are also friendly." Such feedback highlights the market not only as a shopping destination but also as part of the local scenic beauty.
Home-based businesses are thriving during Ramadan as well. Creative entrepreneurs are taking advantage of the festive spirit to launch their home-based ventures. SOKOGURU reported on several promising business ideas for 2025, ranging from simple coffee shops to snack selling. Home-based businesses during Ramadan are marked by high flexibility, allowing individuals to cater to the growing demand for food and beverages without exhausting resources.
Ideas such as opening small cafes (warung kopi), selling snacks online, providing laundry services, and small-scale tailoring are not only practical but can become profitable with relatively low investment. Each of these ideas allows entrepreneurs the flexibility to balance work with the unique demands of Ramadan.
Indeed, the festive period also offers scope for promoting sustainability. Vendors are encouraged to implement eco-friendly practices, such as using biodegradable packaging and encouraging customers to bring their own containers, contributing to the global effort for environmental conservation.
Overall, both the Pasar Wadai Ramadan and the Ngerandu Buko festival not only celebrate the cultural richness and community spirit during Ramadan but also serve as lucrative platforms for budding entrepreneurs. These initiatives represent not just marketplaces for food but also celebrations of heritage, camaraderie, and economic opportunity. With voices of support echoing from local leaders and community members, Ramadan 2025 promises to be not just about fasting but about flourishing, as communities band together to make this month memorable and meaningful.