Jakarta, IDN Times – Indonesia’s Minister of Religious Affairs, Nasaruddin Umar, has called upon the entire Muslim community to embrace Ramadan 1447 H/2026 M as a crucial opportunity to bolster social piety and strengthen national harmony amidst the dynamic tapestry of societal life. The Minister emphasized that Ramadan’s impact should extend beyond personal reflection, fostering robust national solidarity and brotherhood across the archipelago.
“Ramadan is a pivotal moment to cultivate social piety and nurture national harmony. It transcends mere individual worship; it is a spiritual academy that shapes our care, empathy, and responsibility as integral members of the Indonesian nation,” Minister Umar stated in Jakarta on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
Fasting Teaches Self-Control and Proportional Living
Nasaruddin Umar underscored that the practice of fasting instills profound lessons in self-control and living proportionally. These values, he asserted, are fundamental for building a social life that is just, non-exploitative, and sustainable, both in human interactions and in our relationship with nature.
“Ramadan educates us that life isn’t about indulging every desire, but about the conscious awareness to live in balance. This very self-control forms the bedrock for our continued existence as a dignified nation,” he affirmed.
Approach Differences in Ramadan’s Start with Maturity
Addressing the potential variations in the commencement of Ramadan this year, Minister Umar urged the public to approach any differences with maturity and a spirit of brotherhood. He highlighted that such variations are an inherent part of Indonesia’s rich diversity, or kebinekaan.
“Let us embrace differences as a blessing, not as a barrier. Do not let varying calculations erode the closeness of our hearts. It is precisely within these differences that the quality of our tolerance is tested and elevated,” he advised, emphasizing the importance of fostering religious harmony.
Maintaining Harmony and Strengthening Social Solidarity During Ramadan
The Minister also appealed to the community to actively maintain harmony and reinforce social solidarity throughout the holy month of Ramadan. He drew attention to the exemplary conduct of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), who was renowned for his extraordinary generosity, particularly during this sacred period.
“Let this month serve as a momentum to strengthen social solidarity. Ensure that the blessings of Ramadan are felt by every layer of society,” he urged, encouraging acts of kindness and communal support.
Furthermore, Minister Nasaruddin Umar expressed his hope that this Ramadan would foster individuals who are not only personally pious but also contribute tangible goodness to societal life, national development, and the functioning of the state. He concluded with a heartfelt message:
“On behalf of the Minister of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, I extend my wishes for a blessed fast. Marhaban ya Ramadan. May Allah SWT accept all our acts of worship and bestow His blessings upon our beloved Indonesia.”