Muhammadiyah Unveils Single Global Hijri Calendar, Aiming to Unite Muslims Worldwide
A unified Islamic calendar, long considered a symbol of Muslim unity, is moving closer to reality. On Wednesday, June 25, 2025, Muhammadiyah, a leading Indonesian Islamic organization, will inaugurate the Single Global Hijri Calendar (KHGT) at the University of ‘Aisyiyah (Unisa) in Yogyakarta, marking a pivotal moment in a decades-long effort.
A Historic Step Towards Calendar Consistency
The KHGT represents a significant departure from the varying methods currently used to determine the start of Islamic months, often leading to discrepancies in the observance of key religious events like Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha. This initiative, rooted in consistent astronomical calculations, aims to establish a universally accepted calendar for Muslims globally. According to a senior official, “This is no longer a national matter, but global. One date for the whole world.”
17 Years in the Making
The journey towards the KHGT began in 2007 with an international seminar in Jakarta. A member of the Tarjih PP Muhammadiyah Council described the project as “a very large collective work,” emphasizing the extensive collaboration required to bring the calendar to fruition. The inauguration, however, is not the finish line, but rather the beginning of a new phase focused on widespread adoption.
Global Collaboration is Key
Muhammadiyah recognizes that achieving universal acceptance requires a strategic and collaborative approach. Efforts are already underway to engage with key international organizations, including the Islamic Cooperation Organization (OKI), Dianet Turkey, the European Council for Fatwa and Research, and the Fiqh Council of North America. Support from the OKI, particularly the 2008 Dakar Declaration advocating for a unified Islamic calendar, is seen as a crucial asset.
Overcoming Traditional Obstacles
Despite the momentum, challenges remain. The primary hurdle lies in shifting mindsets away from traditional methods of determining the new moon, such as Rukyatul Hilal (visual sighting of the crescent moon) and Functionul Hilal (calculations based on specific geographical locations). One expert in Islamic law noted the need to train religious leaders, or Dai-Dai, to effectively communicate the benefits of the KHGT to their congregations. “We need to train Dai-Dai to understand KHGT, so they can convey it in lectures or sermons,” they stated.
Acknowledging the deeply ingrained nature of these traditions, a professor of physics emphasized the need for patience. “We must be patient, because not all Muslims immediately receive a full science approach,” he explained, recognizing that changing a practice spanning 15 centuries will require sustained effort.
Future Plans: Software, Outreach, and Expansion
Muhammadiyah plans to develop user-friendly software to facilitate access to the KHGT. Domestically, the organization will strengthen ties with other Indonesian Islamic organizations, such as the Indonesian Ulema Council. Internationally, Muhammadiyah’s Special Branch Managers (PCIM) in various countries will play a vital role in advocating for the calendar’s adoption.
A Symbol of Unity
The ultimate goal of the KHGT is to foster a greater sense of unity among Muslims worldwide, ensuring a shared experience in observing significant religious events. As one speaker eloquently put it, quoting a Javanese proverb, “Jer Basuki Mawa Bea”—every great endeavor requires sacrifice. Muhammadiyah remains optimistic that, through dedicated commitment and strategic collaboration, the KHGT will be widely embraced as a step towards Islamic renewal and a stronger global image of the faith.
