Minister Umar urges Muslims to strengthen empathy at Eid

hartono · Mar 22, 2026

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar delivers his Eid al-Fitr greetings online on Saturday (March 21, 2026). ANTARA/HO-Kemenag

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar encouraged Muslims to use Eid al-Fitr as an opportunity to strengthen empathy and social awareness.

He said Ramadan is not only about fasting but also about building a caring and empathetic character.

"Fasting is a process of building social awareness. Behind the hunger and thirst lies a message about empathy for others and concern for those in need," he said in a statement in Jakarta on Sunday.

He added that takbir recitations marking the end of Ramadan symbolize spiritual achievement.

"True victory is not merely returning to daily routines, but maintaining piety," he said.

Umar said Eid al-Fitr is also a moment to promote kindness and seek blessings, which come to those who open their hearts and benefit others.

He urged Muslims to maintain the values practiced during Ramadan, including discipline, honesty, and care, in their daily lives.

Eid al-Fitr falls on March 21 this year.

The minister also extended Eid greetings, expressing hope for peace and harmony in Indonesia.