MUI Urges Society to Maintain Harmony Despite Differences in Eid Celebrations

Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), Cholil Nafis, has urged the public to maintain a conducive atmosphere despite differences in Eid celebrations. “At the same time, we certainly tolerate our brothers and sisters who believe in celebrating Eid tomorrow. Let us preserve our togetherness during this Ramadan month, which has been conducive with worship and our devotion,” Cholil stated during a press conference on the determination of 1 Syawal 1447 H in Jakarta on Thursday (19/3). It is known that the Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag) has set Eid al-Fitr or 1 Syawal 1447 Hijriah to fall on Saturday, 21 March. Thus, the government has decided to complete this year’s fast for 30 days. Cholil explained that the MUI’s 2004 decision states that those authorised to announce the start of Ramadan and Eid are the scholars or, in Indonesia, the Ministry of Religious Affairs. In addition, he reminded the public to practise efficient living by training themselves not to overconsume food. “Let us continue this in the next 11 months. At the end of this Ramadan, there is an obligation of zakat fitrah for our bodies, and also for those who have assets for one year to give zakat,” he said. “Therefore, let us make it a habit to share among us. For us believers, giving charity is proof that we have faith. Thus, maintaining our habits from the month of Ramadan into the following months shows that our Ramadan has been accepted by Allah SWT,” he concluded.