Article by Viory
Mass Wedding Begins
Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs held a mass wedding ceremony in Jakarta on Saturday as part of Nikah Fest 2026, a government-run marriage initiative held during Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar.
Footage shows dozens of couples, many in traditional wedding attire, exchanging vows at Smesco Indonesia. Brides wear white gowns, while grooms are dressed in black suits. The ceremony opens with a Palang Pintu martial arts performance, a traditional Betawi custom symbolising the groom’s arrival.
According to organisers, dozens of couples registered for the programme, with 31 married during the ceremony.
Couples Share Joy
“We are very happy and incredibly proud,” newlywed Muhammad Supendi said. “We had originally planned to get married in November, but thanks to this programme, we were able to move our wedding forward.”
Ahmad Subhan, a participant with disabilities who married Nadia Cahaya Ramadani, said the initiative had lifted many of the financial burdens that often delay marriage.
“As soon as I learned about this mass wedding, I immediately wanted to register because of the many conveniences and facilities provided,” he said. “We receive transportation assistance, business start-up capital for the future, and I also heard that there is an affordable home financing scheme available.”
Government Support Grows
Madari, chairman of the Central Executive Board of the Indonesian Association of Marriage Registrars (APRI), said the programme was designed to help low-income communities.
“We are grateful that we can help those in need, including persons with disabilities,” he said. “Everything is fully covered – the marriage fees are waived, and participants receive vouchers, souvenirs and transportation assistance.”
The mass wedding comes as Indonesia faces a declining marriage rate, with officials presenting the programme as a way to reduce financial barriers for young couples and expand support for newlyweds.
Article by Viory
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