Jakarta, IO – On the designation of 1st of Ramadan 1443 Hijriah as the start date of the fasting month of Ramadan in Indonesia, the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) emphasizes that differences are blessings, something that needs not be debated.
The Indonesian government has decided that 1 Ramadan will fall on April 3 as the new moon phase is yet visible in 34 provinces by April 1, while Muhammadiyah has decided that the fasting will be on April 2.
“We should celebrate differences while still maintaining unity and integrity, especially in matters of worship. The month of Ramadan is full of blessings, mercy and compassion,” said MUI chairman KH Abdullah Zaidi at a press conference. The designation of 1 Ramadan 1443 H was broadcast by the Religion Affairs Ministry via its YouTube channel on Friday (1/4).
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Zaidi underscored that the Indonesian people must unite their hearts to collectively build the nation and state. According to him, the difference in the determination of 1 Ramadan does not dilute communal bond in welcoming the fasting month. (un)