Indonesian Muslims start Ramadan on Tuesday or Wednesday

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA - Minister of Religious Affairs, Suryadarma Ali announced that 1st Ramadan fell on July 10, 2013 after a meeting attended by representatives of Islamic organizations and other Muslim countries. Muhammadiyah, the largest modern Muslim organization in Indonesia, was absent during the meeting.

"Actually, we can avoid argument because a number of organizations have different criteria. But I hope all parties can follow the government's decision regarding to the beginning of Ramadan," Ali said on Tuesday.

The fasting month of Ramadan 1434 Hijri is a perfect moment for Muslims in Indonesia to respect the difference, as some Muslims start on Tuesday while other starts on Wednesday. Chairman of Muhammadiyah, Din Syamsuddin hopes people can respect the difference wisely. Actually, there is no fundamental problems related to the difference in the beginning of Ramadan.

Muhammadiyah will fast for 30 days, while other Muslims for 29 days. Even so, both are predicted to celebrate Idul Fitri or 1st Shawal on the same day. Hijri year is lunar year set based on the moon phases. Its first day of every month is set when new moon arises.