TIMES HONGKONG, JAKARTA – Ramadan, the holy month observed by Muslims worldwide, brings about a myriad of traditions and practices across different cultures. In Indonesia, the spirit of Ramadan is not only manifested through fasting and prayers but also through a unique tradition known as Ra​​​​​​​madan Patrol, or "Patrol Sahur".

This tradition, rooted in communal solidarity and cultural heritage, takes various forms across different regions, reflecting the rich diversity of Indonesian culture.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Ramadan Patrol is the utilization of traditional communication tools like the "kentongan". The kentongan, crafted from hollowed bamboo with handles attached, serves as a means of signaling important events or the presence of community patrols. In some areas, groups of youths carry kentongs during patrols, producing rhythmic sounds akin to popular songs, effectively alerting the neighborhood of their presence.

Innovative improvisations also characterize Ramadan Patrol, where everyday household items are transformed into musical instruments. Cooking utensils like pots and pans, along with buckets and jugs, are rhythmically struck to produce melodies resembling drums and cymbals. This creative adaptation not only serves the practical purpose of alerting residents but also adds an element of joy and festivity to the pre-dawn hours.

Advancements in technology have also made their mark on Ramadan Patrol, with some communities incorporating mobile-mounted speakers into their patrols. Amplifying traditional Ramadan tunes or contemporary music genres like dangdut koplo, these speakers emit loud sounds as they traverse neighborhoods, effectively rousing residents from their sleep. While occasionally startling, this modern approach underscores the efficiency and adaptability of Ramadan Patrol in engaging communities.

However, not all Ramadan Patrols rely on modern gadgets, some communities maintain the tradition of walking patrols, spanning kilometers across villages and streets. In places like Muharto, Malang, East Java, residents gather to embark on these communal walks, not only to wake others for suhoor but also to strengthen bonds among neighbors. Children, too, enthusiastically participate, adding to the vibrancy and sense of unity during these nocturnal excursions.

Moreover, mosques play a central role in facilitating Ramadan Patrols, utilizing their loudspeakers to broadcast wake-up calls and reminders for suhoor. These announcements, often delivered with unique intonations and sometimes humorous tones, capture the attention of both local residents and online audiences, reflecting the intersection of tradition and modernity in Indonesian society.

In essence, Ramadan Patrol embodies more than just a practical means of waking people for suhoor. It symbolizes the preservation of cultural heritage and the spirit of communal solidarity. The diverse practices observed across Indonesia underscore the country's rich cultural tapestry, worthy of preservation and appreciation.

As Indonesians continue to embrace and innovate upon their traditions, Ramadan Patrol serves as a testament to the enduring values of unity, generosity, and shared responsibility during the sacred month of Ramadan. (*)