Jakarta, NU Online
The Nahdlatul Ulama Moonsighting Committee (LFNU) will carry out so-called rukyatul hilal (crescent observation) in determining the first day of Ramadhan 1433 H in some 70 locations throughout Indonesia. <>

The crescent observation will be held on Thursday, July 19, 2012 ( Ramadhan 29th 1433 H). It will reportedly also be supported by 120 certified astromomers and experts both locally and nationally.

"Although NU has predicted, it does not mean that NU has set a date, we still will carry out crescent observations," chairman of LFNU KH A. Ghazalie Masroeri told NU Online here on Sunday (8/7).

The Indonesia's largest Muslim organization in its almanac published by NU LFNU has predicted the 1st Ramadhan 1433 H will fall on Saturday, July 21, 2012. The prediction is based on the most modern astronomical and mathematical calculation.

Kiai Ghozali also called on Nahdliyin to follow the instructions of the Central Board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU).

Meanwhile, the central executive body of Muhammadiyah, had earlier decided that this year’s Ramadhan would fall on July 20.


Writer: A. Anam Khoirul
Editor : Sudarto Murtaufiq