Kapanlagi.com - Elvy Sukaesih, the queen of dangdut in Indonesia, shares stories about her family's traditions in welcoming Ramadan this year. Elvy expresses her hopes to experience the holy month filled with blessings and strength to draw closer to Allah.
"Oh, we are just ordinary, but we usually think that fasting is asking Allah, O Lord, grant me strength not only to withstand thirst and hunger but also to restrain my heart from gossiping and all the bad things to disappear," said Elvy when met in the area of Jalan Kapten Tendean, Mampang, South Jakarta, on Monday (24/2/2025).
For her, Ramadan is a moment to improve oneself. She hopes to become a better person, like a newborn baby with a clean heart. Health is also a primary concern so that she can carry out fasting and tarawih prayers smoothly.
"We want to be like newborn babies again, that's the hope, and especially to be healthy. If we are healthy, insya Allah we can tarawih and fast. We have a prayer room, a mosque near our house, and we all go together with the grandchildren," added Elvy enthusiastically.
1. Enjoy Happiness
This year, Elvy feels that Ramadan will be more special because she can return to the traditions that were missed before. She also finds happiness in simple moments with her family, such as enjoying her children's cooking.
"God willing, yes, it has become like it was before, returning to what was missed. Most likely we will break the fast together sometimes. Now, I just found out that this son of mine can cook. So it seems I will send him, turns out he is smart. If a cancer person is smart, they make a good housewife, diligent," Elvy said with a smile.
As a mother and grandmother, Elvy feels immense happiness when her children and grandchildren gather. For her, these moments of togetherness are a blessing to be grateful for.
"I feel happier with the presence of those who came yesterday. Now, when I see her older brother, who came from Bogor, I say, ‘don’t rush to go home, I’m so happy to see you,’" she said warmly.
2. Comfortable Atmosphere
Elvy admits that she always tries to create a comfortable atmosphere for her family. She even does not hesitate to offer their favorite foods to make the atmosphere even more familiar.
"We just need to ask, 'Hey, what do you want to eat?' Buy this and that, you know. We are indeed a family that loves to gather. Like my husband, there’s not a day without friends," Elvy said with a small laugh.
This gathering tradition is Elvy's way of maintaining a close relationship with her extended family. She feels grateful to still have the opportunity to enjoy moments like this, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.
(kpl/aal/ums)
Disclaimer: This translation from Bahasa Indonesia to English has been generated by Artificial Intelligence.