Indonesia, an archipelago of thousands of islands, lives by a deep faith. It is home to the world’s largest Muslim population — more than 230 million people whose daily lives are closely intertwined with Islamic traditions. From densely populated Java, where ancient temples stand beside elegant minarets, to Sumatra with its pristine landscapes and vibrant Sulawesi, Islam forms an essential part of the country’s cultural identity.
Even on Bali — an island known for its unique form of Hinduism — there is a significant Muslim community of around half a million people, largely due to migration from neighboring islands. While Bali does not fully immerse itself in the atmosphere of Ramadan, mosques become spiritual centers during this time, and some shops and cafés may close for the period.
With the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan, life across the country takes on a deeper meaning, filled with spiritual focus and unity. In 2026, Ramadan lasted from February 19 to March 21.
Islam is not evenly distributed across the archipelago. On Java, the most densely populated island, about 150 million Muslims reside. Sumatra ranks second in terms of Muslim population. The highest concentration of observant believers is found in Aceh — the only province where Sharia law is officially implemented.
A Time for Purification of Body and Soul
Ramadan — the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar — is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. For Muslims, it is a time of spiritual purification: from dawn until sunset, they abstain from food, drink, smoking, and intimacy.
Fasting (puasa) during Ramadan is not merely a physical challenge but a profound inner discipline. Muslims strive for self-control, clarity of thought, strengthened faith, and acts of kindness. Fasting without spiritual intention is considered empty of meaning. It is a time to reassess one’s life, deepen connection to higher values, and cultivate compassion. As Indonesian imams often say:
“Fasting of the body without fasting of the soul is simply hunger without purpose.”
Those exempt from fasting include non-Muslims, children who have not reached adulthood, individuals with severe mental illness, the elderly, and the sick for whom fasting may be harmful. Pregnant and breastfeeding women (if there is health risk), travelers, and women during certain physiological periods are also exempt. Those who are not fasting generally avoid eating or drinking publicly out of respect for those who are. In Jakarta, for example, restaurant windows are often covered with curtains during daytime hours.
If a Muslim misses fasting days for a valid reason, they must make them up later or perform expiation, such as feeding those in need. A key requirement of fasting is sincere intention (niyat), expressed mentally and verbally between the evening and dawn prayers.
The evening meal to break the fast (buka puasa) carries special significance. After the Maghrib prayer, families gather to share the first meal of the day together.
Throughout Ramadan, street markets open across the country, selling food and drinks for iftar. After the evening meal and prayers, many attend tarawih — special nightly prayers, often performed collectively in mosques — creating a strong sense of community and shared devotion.
Unique Ramadan Traditions in Indonesia
On Java, before Ramadan begins, families observe Megengan — a celebratory meal symbolizing spiritual cleansing. The main dish is apem, a rice cake associated with forgiveness.
In some parts of Java, people practice padusan — a ritual cleansing in natural springs on the eve of fasting.
On Sumatra, particularly in Aceh, mosques are illuminated with bright lights, and the sound of the beduk drum announces the time for iftar.
In Yogyakarta, the cultural capital of Java, Sekaten is celebrated — an ancient ceremony blending Islamic and Javanese elements. The Sultan’s orchestra performs spiritual music on the gamelan, a traditional instrument.
On Sulawesi, fishermen perform the ritual of mapapasang before Ramadan, offering prayers to the ocean for a successful catch during the holy month.
Zakat al-Fitr: An Act of Compassion and Unity
Zakat al-Fitr is the obligatory charity paid by every Muslim before the Eid al-Fitr prayer. Today, it amounts to about 3 kilograms of a staple food (usually rice) or its monetary equivalent.
These contributions are distributed to the poor and needy so that they too can celebrate Eid with dignity. Across Indonesia, special committees manage the collection and distribution of zakat, and mosques become centers of charitable activity.
During Ramadan, support for orphans and disadvantaged families increases significantly. Public iftars are organized in cities, and affluent families often finance repairs of shelters and orphanages.
The Last Ten Days: Intensified Devotion
The final ten days of Ramadan are considered especially sacred. Many Muslims observe itikaf — a spiritual retreat in the mosque devoted to prayer and reflection. Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Decree), believed to fall on one of the odd-numbered nights during the final ten days, is regarded as the most powerful night of the year, when prayers are believed to carry extraordinary significance.
Eid al-Fitr: The Festival of Breaking the Fast
The end of Ramadan is marked by Eid al-Fitr — known in Indonesia as Lebaran. It is one of the most important and joyful holidays of the year.
The day begins with a morning prayer (sholat Idul Fitri) around 6 a.m., followed by the tradition of halal bihalal — visiting relatives and friends to ask for forgiveness. It is customary to say:
“Mohon maaf lahir dan batin” — “Please forgive me, body and soul.”
During Lebaran, mudik begins — the massive annual migration back to hometowns. Millions of Indonesians leave major cities, which become noticeably quieter.
Eid al-Adha: The Festival of Sacrifice
Seventy days after Lebaran comes Eid al-Adha (the Festival of Sacrifice). It commemorates the Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son. On this day, Muslims sacrifice animals — most commonly cows, sheep, or goats.
In Indonesia, the holiday has a strong communal character. The meat is divided into three parts: one for the family, one for neighbors and friends, and one for those in need. Many companies and organizations organize large-scale sacrifices and distribute meat regardless of recipients’ religious background.
On Madura Island, Eid al-Adha is accompanied by traditional bull races (karapan sapi), while on Lombok it features perang topat — a ritual battle with rice cakes symbolizing unity and abundance.
Ramadan and the holidays that follow — Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha — are not merely dates on the calendar. They are central periods of spiritual and social life for millions of Indonesians. They represent a time when society unites around values of compassion, generosity, forgiveness, and inner growth — a reflection of the rich cultural and religious heritage of this remarkable country.
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