Jakarta – The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs officially announced the commencement of Ramadan 1446 Hijri, which will begin on Saturday, March 1, 2025. This determination was made during the Sidang Isbat held on February 28, 2025, and was led by Minister of Religion Nasaruddin Umar.
The Sidang Isbat is significant as it not only marks the start of Ramadan but also brings together representatives from various Islamic organizations, astronomers, and foreign diplomats. The session commenced with discussions on the visibility of the hilal, or new moon, establishing the astronomical basis for the decision.
Nasaruddin Umar stated, "Hasil Sidang Isbat menetapkan 1 Ramadhan 1446 Hijriah jatuh pada hari Sabtu," confirming the date during a press conference following the meeting. This decision means Muslims throughout Indonesia are aligned on the start of Ramadan, ensuring they will also perform Shalat Tarawih on the evening preceding Ramadan.
The process for determining the hilal included extensive monitoring at 125 observation points across the archipelago. This approach adheres to the guidelines set forth by MABIMS (Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore's Ministers of Religion), which ensures uniformity in the observance of hijri months. The verified position of the hilal, at heights of 2.5 to 4 degrees, confirmed the start of Ramadan, according to the rigorous criteria.
Participatory observance included not only local clerics but also Muslim communities throughout the nation, with Minister Nasaruddin Umar noting the high likelihood of starting Ramadan simultaneously across Indonesia. He expressed confidence in this unity stating, "Kemungkinan besarnya (awal Ramadan) itu bisa sama," highlighting the goal to synchronize religious observance among followers.
The public had the option to watch the announcement via live-streamed media, enhancing community involvement. "Pengumuman penetapan dilakukan secara daring dan luring," encompassing the use of both online and offline platforms to disseminate information to the public.
After the astronomers presented their findings and following the Maghrib prayers, the meeting continued behind closed doors, leading to the decision announced at 19:43 WIB. With the clear emergence of the hilal confirmed particularly from Aceh, the announcement effectively set the stage for Ramadan to begin the following day, adhering to traditional Islamic teachings.
The Sidang Isbat serves to harmonize the differences often seen between various organizations like Nahdlatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah, providing one clear directive for the Muslim population. With the determination of 1 Ramadhan 1446 Hijriah falling on March 1, 2025, the hope is for communal harmony and observance during this holy month.
Community leaders and international representatives regarded the outcome as a successful collaboration to bring unity to this important religious event. The determination inspires collective action among Indonesian Muslims, promoting both devotion and fellowship as they observe this month of fasting.
With Ramadan's start officially announced, Muslims will embrace this period for reflection, community service, and strengthening their faith, centered around shared practices and family gatherings. The anticipation for the upcoming month brings hope for peace and spirituality across the nation.