Every Ramadan, takjil hunting becomes one of the most awaited moments. As the time for breaking the fast approaches, people flock to find appetising sweet foods and drinks. In fact, in recent years, the phenomenon of the “takjil war” has emerged, in which people compete to get their favourite iftar food, both in traditional markets and through online ordering.
Through a video uploaded by @erikdemarco97, it appears that this phenomenon has also attracted the attention of foreigners living in Jakarta. In the video, Erik is seen queuing with local Jakarta residents to buy fried foods as takjil to break the fast.
“I won’t deny that it’s really difficult to go without drinking until 6 PM, precisely 6:14 for those living in Jakarta like me. However, I must admit that I’m confident I’ll make it through these 10 days. I love the atmosphere, I love the people, and most of all, I love the War Takjil (it was my first time today). Seeing all those people laughing and joking while scrambling to get food was absolutely priceless,” he wrote in the caption.
@erikdemarco97 Day 2 of 10 I won’t deny that it’s really difficult to go without drinking until 6 PM, precisely 6:14 for those living in Jakarta like me. However, I must admit that I’m confident I’ll make it through these 10 days. I love the atmosphere, I love the people, and most of all, I love the War Takjil (it was my first time today). Seeing all those people laughing and joking while scrambling to get food was absolutely priceless. #takjil #wartakjil #indonesia #solotravel #fyp #love ♬ Rindu Muhammadku – Haddad Alwi
The video he uploaded went viral and was commented on by Indonesian netizens. Until now, the video has received hundreds of thousands of likes and thousands of comments on TikTok. Most highlighted that even foreigners have joined the takjil war.
“Bule (foreigners) join the takjil war, how will we take revenge?” wrote a netizen.
Even the official account of the Indonesian tourism ministry, @pesonaindonesia, also commented, “Literally Free Trade War Takjil 🤣.”
Takjil Culture in Indonesia
Takjil is an important part of breaking the fast. Several types of takjil are always in high demand, such as banana compote, mixed ice, fried foods, dates, and various fresh drinks such as fruit ice or young coconut ice. The high demand for certain types of takjil often causes stocks to run out within minutes. In some places, long queues have even formed before the sellers open their stalls.
But lately, the phenomenon of the “takjil war” has emerged, where not only Muslims queue to buy takjil, but also people of other religions.
Many non-Muslims also join the hunt for takjil because they are interested in the variety of typical Ramadan snacks that only appear during this month. Armed with curiosity, many of them also want to feel the euphoria of the war takjil.
The takjil merchandise that is often sold on the side of the road is a special attraction for culinary lovers, making the atmosphere at the sales location even more crowded. This shows that Ramadan is not only about worship but also a moment of togetherness and diversity in enjoying delicious food.
Of course, as an expat in Indonesia, you can also join this phenomenon and hunt for takjil!
