JAKARTA - The Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) KH Anwar Iskandar emphasized that the difference in determining the beginning and end of Ramadan is a natural thing in the treasure of Islamic science. He said the difference was in the realm of ijtihad which was technical, not concerning the principle of faith.
"The difference is inevitable because of its ijtihadi and technical nature. Therefore, the possibility of starting or ending fasting differently can happen. However, the most important thing is to maintain the integrity as Muslims by understanding and respecting each other," said Anwar in a press conference for the Isbat Session for the Determination of the Beginning of Ramadan 1447 H in Jakarta, Tuesday (17/2/2026).
Anwar reminded, the public needs to get used to dealing with differences in a mature way in a democratic nation. As long as it does not touch the basic principles of faith, differences can be part of the wealth of Islamic intellectual tradition.
He assessed that differences that are managed well can actually become harmonious for Indonesian unity and contribute to national stability. Therefore, he asked the public not to use the issue of the beginning of fasting as an excuse to widen social distance.
The Chairman of the MUI also invited Muslims to make Ramadan as a momentum to increase the quality of worship and piety. "Let's try our best to complete worship during the month of Ramadan so that the quality of our faith and piety will increase," he said as quoted from the official website of the Ministry of Religion.
To non-Muslim people, Anwar urged to participate in maintaining a mutual respect atmosphere so that Muslims can carry out fasting with piety and peace.
He also reminded people to maintain their behavior during fasting, including in the digital space. Anwar asked the public not to spread slander or make noise through social media.
"In terms of sharia, fasting is not only to refrain from hunger and thirst, but also to refrain from acts that are not allowed by religion. Do not let fasting be born, but in essence be tainted by attitudes that damage brotherhood," he said.
Anwar hopes Ramadan will produce people who are full of love (rahmah), so that the spirit of mutual respect and love is maintained in community life.
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