MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA – President of Muhammadiyah Haedar Nashir mentioned that Ramadan is a time for a religious reflection for Muslims, the nation, and elites.
Muhammadiyah recently announced that Ramadan 1446 AH falls on Saturday, March 1, 2025. Haedar stated that there must be differences in determining the Islamic dates.
“If there are differences in dates of Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha, we should prioritize tolerance. These variations have always been part of our religion and should not lead to ongoing debates or division,” said Haedar in the press conference at the Muhammadiyah headquarters, Yogyakarta, on February 12.
Haedar acknowledged that the global Muslim community has yet to adopt a unified Hijri calendar. Achieving this would require international consensus. Until then, he encouraged Muslims to practice patience and respect different interpretations.
Haedar also stressed that Ramadan should not be just a routine observance but a time for personal growth and positive change.
“Every year, we fast and celebrate Eid, yet sometimes these practices do not lead to real transformation in our thoughts, actions, or character. Muhammadiyah teaches that true faith should bring enlightenment—turning what is bad into good and making what is good even better,” he explained.
He urged Muslims to internalize the values of Ramadan, allowing their spirituality to shape their behavior, words, and interactions. By doing so, they can set a positive example in society.
“For the nation as a whole, we hope that Ramadan inspires a renewed commitment to upholding noble values, fostering unity, and driving progress. In our diverse society, this spirit can help create a more harmonious and advanced civilization,” said Haedar.
