Ramadan 2026: Start Date Confirmed as February 19th

Indonesia’s Ministry of Religion has officially announced that Ramadan 1447 Hijriah will begin on Thursday, February 19, 2026. The decision was made following an isbat (confirmation) session held on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at the Hotel Borobudur in Jakarta.

Determining the Start of Ramadan

The isbat session, led by Minister of Religion Nasaruddin Umar, involved consultations with experts in astronomy (ilmu falak), representatives from Islamic organizations, and government officials. The determination of the start of Ramadan considers both scientific calculations (hisab) and the actual sighting of the latest moon (rukyat).

Hilal Visibility and Criteria

During the session, it was determined that the position of the new moon (hilal) across Indonesia was below the horizon, making it impossible to observe. Despite this, based on the results of the calculations and the lack of a visible crescent moon, the consensus was reached to begin Ramadan on February 19, 2026. Medcom.id reports the Minister stated, “Based on the results of the reckoning and the absence of a visible moon, it was agreed that Ramadan 1 would fall on February 19 2026.”

Indonesia utilizes the MABIMS (Ministerial Conference on Islamic Affairs of the Southeast Asian Countries) criteria for determining the start of the Islamic calendar. This standard requires a crescent moon height of at least 3 degrees and an elongation of 64 degrees. Sindonews details that the height of the hilal on February 17th was approximately -2° 24′ 43″, falling short of the MABIMS criteria.

Differences in Determination

It’s important to note that variations in the determination of the start of Ramadan can occur among different Islamic organizations. Muhammadiyah, for example, has announced that Ramadan 1447 H will begin on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, based on their adherence to the Single Global Hijri Calendar (KHGT). Kontan.co.id reported on this earlier determination.

Nahdlatul Ulama’s findings aligned with the government’s decision, setting the start of fasting on February 19, 2026.

Government Appeal for Unity

The government has appealed to the Muslim community in Indonesia to respect these differences in opinion and maintain unity and tolerance during the holy month of Ramadan. These variations in determining the start of the Hijri month are a long-standing tradition in Indonesia.

Key Takeaways

• Ramadan 1447 Hijriah will begin on Thursday, February 19, 2026, in Indonesia.
• The decision was made through an isbat session considering both astronomical calculations and the sighting of the new moon.
• Indonesia follows the MABIMS criteria for determining the start of the Islamic calendar.
• Differences in the start date may exist among different Islamic organizations.
• The government encourages unity and respect for differing opinions.