Government to Hold Isbat Session Tomorrow to Determine 1 Syawal

The Ministry of Religious Affairs will hold an isbat session on 19 March 2026 to determine 1 Syawal 1447 Hijriah. The determination of Eid al-Fitr will be based on the results of calculations and crescent moon sightings.

Head of Public Relations Bureau of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Thobib Al Asyhar, stated there are two possible determinations for this year’s Lebaran. “Whether it falls on 20 March, which would coincide with Muhammadiyah, or 21 March through completion,” said Thobib when confirmed on Wednesday, 18 March 2026.

The isbat session is the official government mechanism for determining the start of the Hijriah month, including 1 Syawal. The determination is made by combining astronomical calculations (hisab) and crescent moon observation (rukyat) at various points in Indonesia.

The results of the session will serve as the official reference for Muslims in Indonesia in celebrating Eid al-Fitr.

Thobib reminded that even if there are potential differences in the determination of Lebaran day, the public must maintain tolerance and harmony. “If the results differ, it is hoped that the ummah will still maintain tolerance and harmony,” he said.

He also highlighted the momentum of religious celebrations close to Nyepi Day. According to him, major religious celebrations should still uphold the noble values of religion, including mutual respect. “The festivity of celebrations should still uphold the noble values of religion, namely mutual understanding,” said Thobib.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs hopes that the determination of Eid al-Fitr this year can be responded to wisely by the public, regardless of any potential differences that may occur.

Previously, the Central Leadership of Muhammadiyah has determined that 1 Syawal 1447 Hijriah falls on Friday Legi, 20 March 2026. This determination is based on the Single Global Hijriah Calendar.