Ministry of Religious Affairs: Possibility that 1 Syawal Coincides with Muhammadiyah

The Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag) will convene an isbat session on 19 March 2026 to establish 1 Syawal 1447 Hijriah. The determination of Eid al-Fitr will be based on the results of calculations (hisab) and crescent moon observation (rukyatul hilal).

Head of Public Relations for the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Thobib Al Asyhar, stated there are two possible outcomes for this year’s Lebaran determination. “Whether it falls on 20 March, coinciding with Muhammadiyah, or 21 March through completion (istikmal),” said Thobib when contacted on Wednesday, 18 March 2026.

The isbat session is the official government mechanism for determining the start of Hijriah months, including 1 Syawal. The determination combines astronomical calculations (hisab) and hilal observations (rukyat) at various points across Indonesia.

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

Thobib reminded that despite the possibility of differences in Lebaran dates, society must maintain tolerance and harmony. “If the results differ, it is hoped that the ummah will still uphold tolerance and harmony,” he said.

He also highlighted the momentum of religious celebrations close to Nyepi Day. According to him, major religious celebrations should 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 this year’s Eid al-Fitr determination can be responded to wisely by society, regardless of any potential differences that may occur.