Nyepi Meets Ramadan, Minister of Religious Affairs: We Are One Earth, One Family

Minister of Religious Affairs (Menag) Nasaruddin Umar has invited all elements of the nation to make the Holy Day of Nyepi and the Saka New Year 1948 a momentum to strengthen brotherhood and nurture harmony amid diversity.

“On behalf of the Government of the Republic of Indonesia as well as personally, I convey Selamat Hari Suci Nyepi and Saka New Year 1948,” said the Menag in Jakarta on Wednesday (18/3).

According to the Menag, this year’s Nyepi celebration feels special because it takes place in the atmosphere of the holy month of Ramadan and is close to Eid al-Fitr 1447 H. He assessed that the meeting of these two religious moments becomes a strong symbol of cross-faith togetherness.

“This is not merely a coincidence, but a reminder that we are in one spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: One Earth, One Family,” he emphasised.

The Menag explained that this theme affirms that differences are not barriers, but strengths to tighten brotherhood as a nation. These values, he said, are also reflected in the teachings of Catur Brata Penyepian practised by Hindus during Nyepi.

Through Amati Geni, the faithful are invited to extinguish the fire within, such as anger and egoism. Meanwhile, Amati Karya provides space to pause from physical activities and conduct introspection.

Then, Amati Lelungan teaches not to travel, giving the natural world an opportunity to rest and restore balance. As for Amati Lelanguan, it encourages the faithful to let go of worldly entertainment to find inner clarity.

“By observing Nyepi, Hindus are actually giving a break to the universe. If we honour nature, then nature will honour our human dignity,” said the Menag.

The Menag is optimistic that the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam will continue to encourage Hindus to play an active role in maintaining harmony and strengthening social cohesion in Indonesia.

“May Ida Sanghyang Widhi Wasa always bestow peace, health, and prosperity upon us all,” he concluded.