In Jakarta millions of Indonesians crammed into trains, ferries, planes, buses and motorcycles on Friday, returning to their villages to celebrate the end of Ramadan.

Despite the European economic crisis and slackening Chinese economy, Indonesia remains a powerhouse in South East Asia, fuelled by strong domestic demand from the world's fourth biggest population.

Thus, government officials reported that the number of travellers is 10 percent higher than usual this year because of Indonesia's booming economy.

In Karachi, Pakistan bazaars, markets and shopping malls were illuminated and open late into the night across the city of 18 million with people forgetting economic woes and spending what money they have.

Military security was still visible on the streets but despite a threat of violence and hustling, markets were bustling with festive anticipation.