Indonesian authorities have intensified security measures along major travel routes in Sumatra, deploying special task forces including sniper units to ensure the safety of millions of travellers returning to their hometowns for the upcoming Eid al-Fitr celebrations.
The large-scale annual homecoming tradition, widely known as “mudik”, is regarded as one of the world’s biggest seasonal migrations, often resulting in severe traffic congestion stretching for thousands of kilometres across the archipelago.
This year, nearly 144 million people — more than half of Indonesia’s population — are expected to participate in the tradition. Millions of them will travel through major highways in South Sumatra, prompting authorities to strengthen surveillance and security along the main routes.
South Sumatra Military Commander Maj Gen Ujang Darwis said the Indonesian military has mobilised sniper teams to support the broader security operation during the festive travel period.
“We are deploying sniper units as part of our security measures during the 2026 Eid homecoming period,” he told reporters.
He added that the Indonesian National Police will work closely with the military to ensure public safety throughout the migration period.
“Our personnel will reinforce security along the main migration routes and remain prepared to respond to any potential criminal threats,” he said.
According to Darwis, sniper units will be stationed along the Kayu Agung–Palembang–Betung toll road, a critical corridor used by travellers heading to major cities in Sumatra from Lampung. The route also serves as a key transit link connecting Java and Sumatra islands.
Across Indonesia, a total of 161,000 security personnel have been deployed at 2,746 locations nationwide as part of the government’s security operation for the annual homecoming season, which officially begins today.
Authorities estimate that more than 76 million Indonesians will travel using private cars, while another 24 million are expected to ride motorcycles and about 23 million will rely on buses for their journeys.
The migration is projected to reach its peak next Wednesday, when nearly 22 million people are expected to begin their journeys early to reach their hometowns before the first day of Eid al-Fitr.
Enhanced security measures along major highways are expected to remain in place until the end of the extended festive holidays on March 25.
-THE MALAYSIA VOICE
