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
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
Gov't to Decide Start of 1 Syawal in Isbat Session Tomorrow
1 jam lalu
The Indonesian government will hold an isbat session on March 19, 2026, to determine the beginning of Syawal 1447 Hijriah and the date of Eid al-Fitr.
Crescent Sighting Tomorrow: Moon's Position on the Horizon
6 jam lalu
Lhok Nga was chosen as the location because the moon's position in the Aceh region falls within the limits of the current crescent visibility criteria
Crescent Sighting Sites Across Indonesia to Determine Start of Syawal Tomorrow
9 jam lalu
The isbat session is a mechanism for the government to determine the beginning of the Hijri month, especially Ramadan, Syawal, and Zulhijah.
Health Officials Warn of Increased Measles Risk During Eid Homecoming Travel
10 jam lalu
Indonesia encourages children to receive complete measles-rubella (MR) immunization before Eid homecoming to prevent measles.
Purbaya Denies Fuel Price Hike Speculation Ahead of Eid
19 jam lalu
According to Purbaya, the government still has enough funds in the energy sector to keep fuel prices stable and protect purchasing power.
Jakarta Forecasts 10,000-12,000 Newcomers After Eid
23 jam lalu
The Jakarta provincial government predicts a decrease in the number of post-Eid newcomers in 2026 compared to previous years.
Yogyakarta Airports See Surge of Passengers Ahead of 2026 Eid Travel
1 hari lalu
Yogyakarta airport authorities have prepared 43 additional flights consisting of 24 arrival flights and 19 departures.
East Jambi-Palembang Homecoming Route Temporarily Closed
1 hari lalu
Police close Jambi-Palembang East Sumatra route amid pre-Eid traffic surge, here are alternative routes.
How to Handle GERD Symptoms During Eid Travel, Expert Says
1 hari lalu
If you experience symptoms of GERD while traveling and fasting, take the following steps to relieve symptoms.
Jakarta Offers Free Public Transportation for Two Days During Eid
1 hari lalu
In addition to public transportation, the Jakarta Provincial Government has provided free access to a number of tourist destinations for KJP holders during holiday.
