Jakarta – Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar stated that the Silaturahim Tunnel connecting Istiqlal Mosque and the Cathedral will be opened during the Christmas celebration in 2024. Christians who wish to celebrate Christmas will be able to use the parking area at Istiqlal Mosque.
This was conveyed by the Minister of Religious Affairs during the Cross-Sectoral Coordination Meeting regarding the Readiness of Operation Candle 2024 in the context of Christmas 2024 and New Year 2025 Security held at the STIK Polri Auditorium, Jakarta, on Monday (16/12). Nasaruddin urged the public to take care of the tunnel.
“Therefore, we also request the assistance of the TNI-Polri to maintain security in the tunnel,” said Nasaruddin, as reported by the official Kemenag website on Wednesday (18/12/2024).
Nasaruddin mentioned that the Silaturahi Tunnel has extraordinary and iconic value. Inside, it also showcases very valuable artistic treasures. “Of course, we need strict security, especially since it has gone viral.” “Of course, friends will pass by that place while also celebrating Christmas at the Cathedral,” he said.
Meanwhile, National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo explained that the 2024 Operation Lilin activities are expected to provide security and comfort to the Indonesian people during the homecoming and Nataru holidays. Sigit predicts that the peak of the Nataru homecoming flow will occur on December 21, 2024, and the peak of the return flow on December 28, 2024. “Based on surveys, this year an increase is expected compared to the previous year, 110.67 million, there is an increase.” However, learning from last year, the actual numbers on the ground could be higher than predicted,” said Sigit.
Furthermore, Sigit also mentioned that they will provide security for the community who will be conducting activities in places of worship on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The peak will occur on New Year’s Eve.
Minister of Religious Affairs: Istiqlal-Cathedral Silaturahim Tunnel Opens on Christmas
