The moon sighting ceremony will be held by the Islamic Ministry tonight to determined the beginning of Fitr Eid.
Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has warned against individuals declaring Ramadan and Eid independently, stressing that it could disrupt harmony and urging caution on such matters.
This year, differences have emerged among Islamic nations over the moon sighting for Shawwal. According to astronomical calculations, the moon will not be visible after sunset on the 29th of Ramadan in any country to the east of Maldives.
Maldives calendar currently places Eid on Monday, although there is a possibility that tomorrow may be declared as Eid.
In response to the differing opinions, Minister Shaheem advised against unilateral declarations of Eid.
"There is no issue with scientific discussions in the field of astronomy regarding the moon sighting. However, this should be done in a way that does not harm the public interest," he said.
"Especially as the moon sighting for Ramadan and Shawwal is governed by Shari’ah principles, it is in the best interest of the people that unofficial parties refrain from making statements that could cause confusion."
Minister Shaheem reiterated that the Ministry of Islamic Affairs will continue to follow established principles for verifying the moon sighting.
Former President and astronomer Maumoon Abdul Gayoom stated that in countries such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Turkey, and Morocco, the moon will remain in the sky for 8 to 20 minutes after sunset. This suggests that Saturday, March 29, will be the last day of Ramadan, with Eid celebrations beginning the next day.
"March 29 is also the 29th day of Ramadan. The sun will set at 1814 hrs on March 30, and the moon will set at the same time," he said.
He acknowledged the ongoing debate over whether Sunday should be declared the 1st of Shawwal for the Maldives based on astronomical observations. However, for many Islamic countries, Sunday is expected to be the first day of Shawwal.
The moon sighting ceremony will be held by the Islamic Ministry tonight to determined the beginning of Fitr Eid.
Islamic Minister Dr Shaheem Ali Saeed
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