Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei have officially announced the beginning of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, marking the countdown to Eid Al Adha, one of the most significant festivals in the Muslim calendar.
Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs confirmed that Dhul Hijjah will begin on Wednesday, May 28, after the crescent moon was sighted in the country. This places Eid Al Adha—also known as the Festival of Sacrifice—on Friday, June 6 for Indonesian Muslims.
Meanwhile, authorities in Malaysia reported that the moon was not sighted on the evening of Monday, May 26. As a result, the country will commence Dhul Hijjah a day later, on Thursday, May 29. Consequently, Eid Al Adha will be observed on Saturday, June 7.
Brunei made a similar announcement shortly after Malaysia. Officials there confirmed that the new moon was not visible, aligning their calendar with Malaysia. Brunei will also begin Dhul Hijjah on Thursday, May 29, and celebrate Eid Al Adha on Saturday, June 7.
The differences in Eid dates are a result of the Islamic calendar’s reliance on the lunar cycle, which often leads to varying start dates for Islamic months based on local moon sightings. Unlike the fixed Gregorian calendar, Islamic months begin with the sighting of the new moon, making observances like Ramadan, Eid Al Fitr, and Eid Al Adha variable across different regions.
Eid Al Adha commemorates the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command. It is traditionally observed with special prayers, feasting, and the ritual sacrifice of animals, with the meat distributed among family, friends, and those in need.
As the Islamic world prepares for this significant occasion, Muslim communities in each country will follow their national authorities’ announcements regarding the start of Dhul Hijjah and Eid observances. The difference in celebration dates highlights the diversity in lunar sighting practices across the Muslim world.
