Ramadan, the holy month of fasting for millions of Muslims worldwide, is set to commence on different dates across various countries, highlighting the differences in moon sighting and astronomical calculations used to determine its start. The Islamic holy month is deeply significant, marking the time when the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. This year, Ramadan 1446 Hijriah is expected to begin on Saturday, March 1, 2025, according to astronomical calculations, but some regions will start on Sunday, March 2, 2025, based on local observations.
Starting with Indonesia, the government officially announced on February 28, 2025, after moon sighting activities confirmed the new crescent moon would not be visible, indicating Ramadan would commence on March 1. The Dewan Masjid Indonesia confirmed this start date, reflecting the country’s reliance on both moon sighting (rukyat) and astronomical calculation (hisab).
Meanwhile, Malaysia will observe Ramadan beginning on March 2, as stated by Tan Sri Syed Danial Syed Ahmad, the Keeper of the Rulers’ Seal. He revealed this announcement was made following the Sultan's decree after sighting of the crescent moon was unsuccessful on February 28. The moon sighting occurred at several locations, indicating its visibility did not meet the criteria for beginning the month on March 1. This relies on the lunar calendar, which requires the sighting of the moon to commence the new month.
Singapore's Mufti Dr. Nazirudin Mohd Nasir confirmed the same commencement date as Malaysia, March 2, following similar calculations of the moon’s position. He stated on social media, noting the moon was at too low an angle to be sighted on February 28. This led to concluding Shaban would be counted as thirty days, leading to the onset of Ramadan on the second of March.
On February 28, Uttar Thailand's Muslim community also aligned with their regional neighbors, concluding Ramadan would commence on March 2, verifying through local moon sightings. Sheikh Arun Boonchom, the head of Thailand's Islamic Council, substantiated this announcement during a public update transmitted across media channels.
Similarly, Cambodia's Supreme Islamic Council affirmed the commencement of Ramadan for its 300,000 Muslims to fall on March 2, coinciding with the announcements from neighboring countries, demonstrating unity among the community amid the predominantly Buddhist nation.
Contrastingly, Australia’s Grand Mufti has declared March 1 as the starting date for Ramadan. This decision stemmed from consultations with the Australian Fatwa Council, employing astronomical calculations to estimate the crescent moon's appearance. The majority of Muslims across the country are preparing to observe fasting beginning on this date.
Saudi Arabia and Oman also confirmed their start date for Ramadan on March 1, 2025, recognizing sightings of the crescent moon across various locations. This divergence among countries highlights the cultural and religious practices performed as Muslim communities approach this sacred time with anticipation.
This year’s unique observance across these nations not only emphasizes the variety of methods used to determine the start of Ramadan but also showcases the significance of community, reflection, and faith as Muslims around the globe prepare for the month of fasting, prayer, and unity. The essence of Ramadan remains unchanged regardless of the start date—encouraging spirituality and compassion, alongside the fast, with millions coming together through prayer and charitable acts.
Muslims worldwide are reminded of the core essence of Ramadan, which includes the promotion of good deeds, self-restraint, and kindness. The variations in commencement dates serve as reminders of the rich diversity within the Islamic community and the multifaceted ways Ramadan is observed across the globe, all under the shared mission of enhancing piety and devotion during this special period of the lunar calendar.