The start of the holy month of Ramadan in Indonesia was marked by a heartwarming gesture by the Angkatan Muda Pembaharuan Indonesia (AMPI). On the first day of fasting, AMPI organized social activities and distributed takjil (small snacks) and meals for iftar to the people in the vicinity of the Golkar Party’s Central Board Office in the Slipi area of West Jakarta.
The Chairman of the AMPI Central Board, Jerry Sambuaga, emphasized that this initiative was part of the directive from the Chairman of the Golkar Party, Bahlil Lahadalia, urging all members to engage closely with the community. As an organization founded by the Golkar Party, Jerry highlighted AMPI’s commitment to sharing goodwill, particularly with the local residents around the Golkar Party headquarters.
“In this holy month of Ramadan, from the first day of fasting onwards, AMPI is dedicated to engaging in activities with the community by sharing and participating in social and community initiatives,” Jerry stated in Jakarta on Saturday, March 1, 2025.
Jerry reiterated Bahlil’s call for all Golkar Party members to be present and involved with the people, especially during the sacred month of Ramadan. “AMPI, in line with this directive, is always striving to spread kindness and goodness to everyone, especially during this holy month,” he affirmed.
According to Jerry, AMPI remains focused on conducting positive activities for the benefit of society. “This is also a testament to our commitment in AMPI, where social and community initiatives are our top priority to foster closer bonds and care for the people,” he concluded.
Government Announcement and Religious Significance
Prior to this meaningful initiative by AMPI, the Ministry of Religious Affairs had officially declared the commencement of Ramadan on Saturday, March 1, 2025. This decision was reached during the Isbat Session held at the Ministry’s office in Jakarta on Friday, February 28, 2025.
“The Isbat Session has determined that the 1st of Ramadan, 1446 Hijriah, falls on Saturday,” announced Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar during a press conference following the Isbat Session.
This decision was made after the position of the new moon had met the criteria set by MABIMS (Ministers of Religious Affairs of Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore). The criteria stipulated that the moon must reach a height of 3 degrees with an elongation angle of 6.4 degrees to be considered visible.
As a result of the Isbat Session, Muslims in Indonesia were able to commence Tarawih prayers on Friday night. The session was attended by representatives from religious organizations, astronomy experts, the Indonesian House of Representatives Commission VIII, and diplomats from friendly nations. The announcement of the Ramadan commencement was made through both online and offline channels, allowing the public to witness the declaration via official social media platforms of the Ministry of Religious Affairs.
Isbat Session Process and Community Participation
The Isbat Session, which began at 16:00 local time on Friday, involved a detailed presentation on the positioning of the new moon (hilal) based on astronomical data provided by experts. Notably, this year witnessed a consensus among the Government, Nahdlatul Ulama, and Muhammadiyah regarding the start of Ramadan on the 1st of Ramadan, 1446 Hijriah, aligning with the Gregorian calendar year 2025.
The collaborative effort and unified decision-making process underscored the importance of community engagement and shared values during this significant period. The Isbat Session served as a platform for religious leaders, experts, and lawmakers to come together and uphold traditions while embracing technological advancements for broader outreach and inclusivity.
By marking the beginning of Ramadan with acts of kindness and solidarity, organizations like AMPI exemplify the spirit of compassion and unity that defines this auspicious month for Muslims worldwide. As communities gather to break their fast and offer prayers, the essence of Ramadan resonates through shared meals, charitable deeds, and a sense of togetherness that transcends boundaries and fosters goodwill among all.
