Potential Difference of the Beginning of Ramadan 2026: Muhammadiyah 18 February, Government Predicted 19 February

Muhammadiyah uses the KHGT method to determine 1 Ramadan 1447 H falls on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. (Photo: freepik.com)

JAKARTA - Discussions regarding the Single Global Hijri Calendar (KHGT) continue to grow in the community. This difference of opinion is considered positive as part of the refinement of the concept of a more integrated and long-term Islamic calendar.

In the midst of this dynamic, Muhammadiyah astrologer, Arwin Juli Rakhmadi Butar-Butar, provided an in-depth explanation regarding the reason why Muhammadiyah determined that Ramadan 1447 Hijriah fell on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

Referring to the Single Global Hijri Calendar (KHGT)

The initial determination of Ramadan 1447 H is officially stated in the Muhammadiyah Central Leadership Information Number 2/MLM/I.0/E/2025. This was reported on the official Muhammadiyah website; Muhammadiyah.or.id which was quoted by VOI on Monday, February 16.

It should be noted that Muhammadiyah has now switched to using the KHGT method as the official reference, replacing the wujudul hilal method used previously.

In the implementation of KHGT, there are three main elements that must be met: Principles, Conditions, and Parameters (PSP). One of the crucial parameters is:

The height of the crescent is at least 5 degrees. Elongation is at least 8 degrees anywhere on the earth's surface.

Position of the Detected Hilal in Alaska

Based on astronomical calculations, the initial conjunction (ijtimak) of Ramadan occurred on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 19.01 WIB. Although in Indonesia the crescent is still below the horizon (negative), the KHGT parameters have been met in other regions.

"For the beginning of Ramadan 1447 H, these parameters have been met in Alaska, USA, with a hilal height of $05^\circ 23' 01''$ and an elongation of $08^\circ 00' 06''$," explained Arwin. Because the position of the crescent moon has met the requirements in one part of the earth, then according to the global principle, the next day is determined as the beginning of a new month for the whole world.

Potential Differences with the Government

On the other hand, the government through the Ministry of Religion is expected to determine the beginning of Ramadan on Thursday, February 19, 2026. This is because the government uses the MABIMS criteria (high hilal 3 degrees and elongation 6.4 degrees) which is limited to the territorial area of Indonesia.

Here is a brief comparison table of the two methods:

Features KHGT (Muhammadiyah) MABIMS (Government) Coverage Global (Worldwide) Local / Regional (Indonesia) High Hilal Minimum $ 5 ^ \circ $ Minimum $ 3 ^ \circ $ Elongasi Minimum $ 8 ^ \circ $ Minimum $ 6,4 ^ \circ $ Verification Definitive Calculation Calculation & Rukyat (Isbat Session)

Theological Basis: Global Community of People

The implementation of KHGT is not merely a matter of astronomical techniques, but is based on the principle of ummah wahidah (unity of the people). Muhammadiyah understands the hadith of the commandment to fast universally.

With the concept of fiqh ittihad al-mathali' (global matlak), if the crescent is proven definitively in one region of the earth, then the decision applies to all Muslims without geographical barriers.

Responding to Differences Wisely

Arwin emphasized that the potential for differences in the beginning of Ramadan is not a matter of aqidah, but rather a technical difference in the implementation of the criteria.

"All input and criticism of KHGT are part of a constructive scientific and ijtihad process," he concluded. The public is urged to respond to this difference by prioritizing the values of science and the welfare of the community.