Lebaran in Bengkalis: Deputy Regent’s Residence Welcomes Special Guests
BENGKALIS –ASWINNEWS.COM – The first day of Eid al-Fitr 1446 Hijriah was a special moment for the Deputy Regent of Bengkalis, Bagus Santoso. His residence on Monday, March 31, 2025, was filled with guests of honor from various backgrounds, showing the strong spirit of togetherness and diversity in the Land of the Lord.
In addition to the local community, Bagus Santoso’s residence was also visited by special guests, such as Prof. Gamal Abdul Nasir from Brunei Darussalam and the Dumai Parish Priest, Emil, and his entourage. Their presence added to the warmth of the Lebaran atmosphere in Bengkalis which is always lively and full of tolerance.
Bagus Santoso, accompanied by his wife, Siti Aisyah, and children, welcomed the guests with his typical hospitality. The guests were treated to typical Lebaran dishes such as ketupat, rendang, and various traditional cakes.
“Alhamdulillah, the tradition of silaturahmi in Bengkalis is still maintained. Even in the villages, the tradition of ‘baraan’ or the holiday group still takes place,” said Bagus Santoso proudly.
He also said that the excitement of Lebaran in Bengkalis is always a magnet for migrants to return to their hometowns.
“On behalf of the Bengkalis Regency Government, family, and personally, I wish you a Happy Eid al-Fitr. Please accept my sincere apologies,” he added.
Prof. Gamal Abdul Nasir: “Bengkalis, a Home That is Always Missed”
One of the guests of honor who attended was Prof. Gamal Abdul Nasir, an academic who has lived in Brunei Darussalam for 25 years. He was willing to travel far to return to celebrate Eid al-Fitr in his hometown.
“Wherever I go, no matter how far the distance, the longing to return to Bengkalis is always there. The atmosphere of my hometown can never be replaced,” said Prof. Gamal, a lecturer at the Sultan Hasanal Bolkiah Education Institute, Universiti Brunei Darussalam.
He emphasized that even though he had been abroad for a long time, his love for Bengkalis remained strong.
“Bengkalis is a home that is always in my heart. No matter how far I go, I will always return,” he said.
Father Emil: “A Warm Welcome from the Deputy Regent of Bengkalis”
Dumai Parish Priest, Emil, also attended with the group. He expressed his admiration for the warm and friendly welcome from the Deputy Regent of Bengkalis.
“We came from Dumai in several cars and were greeted extraordinarily. The atmosphere here is truly full of warmth and togetherness,” said Father Emil.
He said that he and the Catholic church congregation also went around to give Eid greetings to Muslims.
“We wish our Muslim brothers and sisters a Happy Eid. May happiness and blessings abound for all,” he said.
Meaningful Eid
The presence of honored guests from within and outside the country at the residence of the Deputy Regent of Bengkalis reflects the close relationship between religious communities and the strength of the tradition of friendship in Negeri Junjungan. This moment is proof that Bengkalis remains a home for all, regardless of differences.
Writer Desi Mayasari
Editor Ardes
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