March 18, 2026 | 03:48 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs will hold an isbat session on March 19, 2026, to determine the start of 1 Syawal 1447 Hijriah, marking the celebration of Eid al-Fitr. The date will be set based on astronomical calculations (hisab) and moon sightings (rukyatul hilal).
Thobib Al Asyhar, Head of the Ministry’s Public Relations Bureau, said there are two possible dates for Eid this year.
“It could fall on March 20, aligning with Muhammadiyah, or on March 21 if determined through istikmal,” he said on Wednesday, March 18, 2026.
The isbat session is the official government process for determining the start of the Hijri month, including 1 Syawal.
The date is established by combining scientific calculations with moon observations conducted at multiple points across Indonesia.
The results of the session serve as the official reference for Muslims in Indonesia to celebrate Eid al-Fitr. Thobib reminded the community that, even if there are differences in the observed date, tolerance and harmony should be maintained.
“If the results differ, it is hoped that the community will continue to uphold respect and unity,” he said.
He also noted the timing of religious celebrations this year, which coincide with Nyepi, the Hindu Day of Silence in Bali. “Major religious holidays should continue to uphold the values of religious nobility, including mutual respect,” Thobib added.
The Ministry hopes that the 2026 Eid al-Fitr determination will be received wisely and peacefully by the community, regardless of potential differences in observance.
Earlier, the Central Leadership of Muhammadiyah announced that 1 Syawal 1447 Hijriah would fall on Friday, March 20, 2026, based on the Global Unified Hijri Calendar.
Read: Kemenag: Indonesia's Official Eid Date May Coincide with Muhammadiyah
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