Religious Affairs Minister: No Distance Despite Differences in Eid Celebrations

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar has called on Muslims to preserve unity despite differences in setting the date for Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah. This appeal was made during a press conference following the Isbat session on Thursday, 19 March 2026.

The Minister stressed that emerging differences should not create rifts within society. He urged all parties to prioritise togetherness as fellow citizens.

“And to those who differ from the government’s decision or this Isbat session’s determination, there should be no distance between us,” said Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar during the Isbat session press conference on Thursday, 19 March 2026.

He also reminded that all Muslims remain united, despite variations in determining the holiday.

“Our friends are fellow citizens and fellow Muslims. Do not let differences cause us to distance ourselves from one another,” he added.

The Minister further noted that maintaining harmony is a collective responsibility between the government and religious scholars in addressing religious issues.

“This is certainly not only the duty of the authorities but also of the scholars. Here, we see how scholars and authorities sit together in deliberation to resolve religious and national issues,” stated the Minister.

He viewed the Isbat session as a forum for consultation that brings together various parties to determine the start of the Hijri month while safeguarding the unity of the ummah.

The Isbat session for determining 1 Syawal 1447 Hijriah was held today, involving various parties, from representatives of Islamic organisations, astronomy and falak experts, to relevant agencies. Based on the calculations and sightings conducted at various monitoring points in Indonesia, the government has set 1 Syawal 1447 Hijriah to fall on Saturday, 21 March 2026.