Indonesian Officials Call for Unity as Idul Adha 2026 Dates are Officially Set

The Indonesian government has determined that the start of Zulhijiah 144tttt Hijriah falls on 18 May 2026, with the Eid al-Adha holiday officially set for 27 May 2026. This year’s schedule is being celebrated simultaneously across the country.

During the ‘isbat’ session held at the Ministry of Religious Affairs auditorium in Jakarta on Sunday (17/5), Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar confirmed that based on astronomical calculations (hisab) and sighting reports (hilal), the dates were finalised. The session involved various Islamic organisations and included presentations by the Ministry’s astronomical team and closed-door discussions with religious leaders.

Unlike previous years, there is no discrepancy in the determination of Idul Adha 2026. The Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) confirmed they would follow the government’s decision, noting that their moon-sighting teams in Lamongan, Sidoarjo, and Kudus successfully sighted the hilal, confirming the start of Zulhijjah on 18 May.

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) used the occasion to issue a message of social responsibility, urging Muslims to use the sacrifice of Eid al-Adha as a means to foster social sensitivity and compassion. MUI Secretary General Amirsyah Tambunan emphasised that the ritual of animal sacrifice should serve to curb greed and strengthen the bonds of the Indonesian people.

Furthermore, Hidayat Nur Wahid, a member of Commission VIII of the House of Representatives (DPR RI), expressed appreciation for the consensus reached between the government and various religious organisations. He noted that despite differing astronomical methods, the unified decision reflects the spirit of ‘Bhinneka Tunggal Ika’ (Unity in Diversity), demonstrating that different backgrounds can still unite as one nation.