A momentous occasion of spiritual reflection and national significance unfolded at the State Mosque in Indonesia’s Nusantara Capital (IKN) as it hosted its inaugural Tarawih prayer, marking the start of Ramadan 1447 H on Wednesday, February 18th, 2026. Worshippers gathered in deep devotion, participating in this sacred evening prayer with profound reverence.
Designed to accommodate an impressive 29,000 congregants in its initial phase, the IKN Mosque provided a grand setting for this momentous event. This historic gathering represents a significant milestone, as it was the first time the community observed the Ramadan Tarawih prayer within the state mosque located in Indonesia’s burgeoning new center of government.
The official commencement of Ramadan 1447 H was formally declared by the Indonesian government, through its Ministry of Religious Affairs, setting the first day of fasting for Thursday, February 19th, 2026. This crucial decision was unveiled during a press conference following the comprehensive sidang isbat (religious court session) held on Tuesday, February 17th, 2026. The session saw active participation from representatives of various Islamic organizations, expert astronomers, and other pertinent government bodies.
The determination of Ramadan’s beginning is a meticulous process, grounded in the nationally verified results of rukyatul hilal, or direct crescent moon sighting, combined with precise hisab, which are astronomical calculations. This dual approach ensures accuracy and widespread acceptance across the archipelago for the holy month.
With this unified decision, Muslims throughout Indonesia are officially poised to commence their sacred Ramadan 1447 H fast on Thursday, February 19th, 2026, embarking on a month of devotion, introspection, and spiritual renewal.
Summary
The inaugural Tarawih prayer for Ramadan 14