Prabowo Performs Eid al-Fitr Prayer in Aceh Tamiang – 2026

ACEH TAMIANG, Indonesia – President Prabowo Subianto marked the first day of Eid al-Fitr 2026 with prayers alongside congregants at the Darussalam Mosque in Kampung Simpang, Karang Baru, Aceh Tamiang Regency, Aceh province, on Saturday, March 21st. The President’s choice to celebrate Eid in Aceh Tamiang underscores the importance his administration places on connecting with communities across the Indonesian archipelago, particularly in regions with distinct cultural and religious traditions. This year’s observance of Eid al-Fitr, falling on March 21st, was determined based on the results of *rukyatul hilal* (the sighting of the new moon) and astronomical calculations, as announced by Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar.

Footage released by the Presidential Secretariat’s YouTube channel showed President Subianto arriving at the mosque around 7:20 AM local time, dressed in a white long-sleeved shirt and a black *peci* (traditional Indonesian cap). He was accompanied by key members of his administration, including Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya, Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sugiono. The presence of these high-ranking officials highlights the significance the President attaches to participating in this important religious observance.

Upon arrival, President Subianto was greeted with enthusiasm by local residents who had gathered to perform the Eid prayers. Several attendees were observed capturing the moment with their mobile phones, reflecting the public’s keen interest in the President’s participation in the community event. The atmosphere was one of shared joy and religious devotion as the community came together to celebrate the end of Ramadan.

A Front-Row Seat for Eid Prayers

Following his arrival, President Subianto immediately proceeded to take a seat in the front row for the Eid prayers. He was positioned between Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya and Minister of the Interior Tito Karnavian, signifying a close working relationship and shared commitment to national unity. The *shalat Id* (Eid prayer) commenced immediately upon the President’s arrival, with the congregation following the Imam in a unified expression of faith. The scene underscored a sense of normalcy and continuity as the nation celebrated a significant religious holiday.

The Darussalam Mosque was filled with a sense of reverence as President Subianto and the local community engaged in the Eid prayers. The atmosphere was described as “khusyuk” – deeply solemn and focused – by those in attendance. This communal act of worship served as a powerful symbol of national harmony and religious observance.

President Subianto’s Eid Schedule

The President’s decision to spend the first day of Eid in Aceh Tamiang is part of a broader schedule of engagements planned for the holiday. Later in the day, President Subianto is scheduled to host an open house, or *halalbihalal*, at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta, which is open to the public. As reported by Kompas.com, this event is intended to foster a spirit of reconciliation and strengthen ties between the President and the Indonesian people.

Meanwhile, Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka also celebrated Eid al-Fitr in Jakarta, performing the Eid prayers at the Istiqlal Mosque accompanied by his son, Jan Ethes. Details of Vice President Gibran’s Eid celebrations were also reported by Kompas.com, highlighting the coordinated efforts of the administration to connect with citizens across the country.

The Significance of *Rukyatul Hilal*

The determination of the start of Eid al-Fitr is a significant event in Indonesia, a nation with the world’s largest Muslim population. The process relies heavily on *rukyatul hilal*, the sighting of the new crescent moon, conducted by officials from the Ministry of Religious Affairs at hundreds of observation points across the archipelago. This practice is combined with astronomical calculations (*hisab*) to ensure accuracy in determining the Islamic calendar. Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar emphasized that the results of these observations are the primary basis for establishing the date of Eid.

The successful sighting of the new moon and the subsequent announcement of Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah/2026 Masehi allowed millions of Indonesians to observe the religious holiday with certainty, and unity. This year’s determination of the Eid date reflects the government’s commitment to respecting and facilitating the religious practices of its citizens.

As the nation celebrates Eid al-Fitr, President Subianto’s presence in Aceh Tamiang serves as a reminder of the importance of national unity and religious harmony. The President’s schedule for the remainder of the Eid holiday, including the open house at the Presidential Palace, is expected to further strengthen these bonds. The next official update from the Presidential Secretariat is anticipated to detail the outcomes of the *halalbihalal* event and any further engagements planned by the President during the Eid al-Fitr celebrations.

We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences celebrating Eid al-Fitr in the comments below.