Hisab Experts Agree Idul Fitri on Friday,
10 September 2010

Jakarta | badilag.net/english

Although the decision on a new Syawwal 1431 H (Islamic Calendar) will only be determined officially by the Ministry of Religious Affairs today (Wednesday night), Hisab experts have decided that lebaran (Idul Fitri celebration) will coincide with Friday, 10 September 2010.

The statement was made by DG of Badilag, Wahyu Widiana, at his office. According to Wahyu,  at sunset today, in the entire territory of Indonesia, the new moon is still below ufuq (horizon), between (-2.5) to (-4) degrees. “So, it’s impossible that we can see the new moon,” he said.

“Therefore, the decision of idul fitri will be based on istikmal (completing) i.e. fulfilling the number of days to 30 days of Ramadhan. Thursday will be the last day of fasting,” he added.

Wahyu also warned religious court judges to be very careful in receiving and deciding cases of moon observation. “All qualified and trusted hisab experts and astronomical experts agree that today (Wednesday) the moon is still below the horizon and impossible to be seen,” he said.

To all Muslims, especially to the big family of religious courts throughout Indonesia, Wahyu says, “Happy Iedul Fitri, 1 Syawal 1431 H. Taqabbalahu minna waminkum, shiyamana wa shiyamakum. May Allah bless us.” (c)