March 18, 2026 | 03:35 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag) will conduct an isbat session on March 19, 2026, to officially determine the start of 1 Syawal 1447 Hijriah, marking the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.
The decision will be based on a combination of astronomical calculations (hisab) and moon sighting (rukyatul hilal).
Thobib Al Asyhar, Head of the Ministry’s Public Relations Bureau, said there are two possible dates for Eid al-Fitr this year.
“It could fall on March 20, aligning with Muhammadiyah’s calendar, or on March 21 if determined through istikmal,” he explained on Wednesday, March 18, 2026.
The isbat session is Indonesia’s official mechanism for determining the start of the Hijri months, including 1 Syawal.
The process combines scientific calculations and direct moon observations conducted across multiple locations in the country. The session’s outcome serves as the official reference for Muslims in Indonesia to celebrate Eid al-Fitr.
Thobib stressed that, despite potential differences in the observed date, the community should maintain tolerance and harmony. “If the results differ, we hope the community will continue to uphold respect and unity,” he said.
He also noted that the timing of religious holidays this year coincides with Nyepi, the Hindu Day of Silence in Bali. “Major religious celebrations should promote mutual respect and the values of religious nobility,” Thobib added.
The Ministry hopes that the 2026 Eid al-Fitr determination will be received wisely and peacefully by the community, regardless of any differing observances.
Read: Crescent Sighting Tomorrow: Moon's Position on the Horizon
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