By DayakDaily Team
BINTULU, Aug 12: The newly launched Bintulu Astronomy Centre (Pusat Falak Bintulu) stands as a landmark for modern astronomy in Sarawak, uniquely integrating religious requirements with advancements in astronomical science for the benefit of Muslims and the wider community.
According to a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news report, Sarawak Mufti Datu Kipli Yassin said the centre is a vital knowledge hub that will play a crucial role in astronomy observation, research, and education.
“One of the main functions of this centre is to carry out ‘rukyah’ and observations of celestial objects such as ‘hilal’, the moon, the sun, planets, stars, constellations, nebulae, and various other astronomy phenomena.
“The observation of ‘hilal’ is crucial in determining the beginning of Islamic months including Ramadan and Hari Raya.
“This centre is also equipped with advanced optical instruments to ensure accurate and high-quality observations,” he said when speaking at the launch ceremony of the Bintulu Astronomy Centre here today.
The launch ceremony was graced by Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar together with his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.
Also present were Minister in the Premier’s Department Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, DBKU, and Islamic Affairs) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, Jepak assemblyman Iskandar Turkee, Sarawak Islamic Council (MIS) president Datuk Misnu Taha, Bintulu Division Resident Datu Nyurak Keti, and Sarawak Grand Imam Dato Mustapha Kamal Ahmad Fauzi.
Elaborating further, Kipli said the Bintulu Astronomy Centre also serves as a research facility, providing resources for researchers and astronomers to expand knowledge and produce new innovations in space science.
In addition, the centre will also function as an education hub for astronomy and modern astronomical science, as well as a primary reference point for the community interested in the field.
“The centre also adopts an astro-tourism concept, allowing visitors to witness the wonders of the universe through observations using the latest technology,” he added. — DayakDaily
