Sarawak strives to expand study of astronomy — CM
MIRI: Sarawak government has pledged to develop ‘ilmu falak’ education in the state, in view of this branch of science having contributed significantly to human civilisation.
The phrase ‘ilmu falak’ translates as ‘knowledge from the observation and studies of celestial bodies and phenomena’ – or astronomy.
According to Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg, astronomical research is not only about observing the movements of the moon, but it actually relates to many developments and most significantly, it inspired United States’ National Aeronautics and Space Administration (Nasa).
He said since the beginning of astronomy studies, this branch of science had been used in observing natural situations and phenomenon around the world – climate change and natural disasters like flash floods, as examples.
“I was told by Minister of Transport Datuk Lee Kim Shin about floods strikng Long Lama, Marudi.
“So through ‘ilmu falak’, we can potentially predict the raining season and thus, early preparation could be carry out before it arrives.
“The United Nations (UN) has been discussing about calamity changes, about climates and flood catastrophes. Even the Chinese calendar are connected to the observation of the moon.
“So, I believe this is where ‘ilmu falak’ education can play a vital role,” said Abang Johari in his speech in officiating at the opening ceremony of Pusat Falak Miri at Luak Esplanade yesterday.
Works on the RM4.5-million centre commenced on Sept 5, 2019 and reached completion on July 13 this year.
The symbolic handing-over of the building from the state Public Works Department (JKR) to the Mufti Department of Sarawak (JMNS) was conducted on Aug 13 this year.
This falak centre project was commissioned under the 11th Sarawak Plan (2016-2020) based on four principles – to be used as an observatory; to function as a platform for astronomical research; to serve as a hub for education and development in the field of astronomy; and to become a space-tourism facility.
It is also informed that the centre is to be used by the JMNS’ Astronomy Division for ‘rukyah’ (moon-sighting, as in determining the start of the fasting month, or the celebration days of Hari Raya Aidilfitri or Hari Raya Aidiladha) and preparation of prayer times, for observing natural celestial phenomena such as solar and lunar eclipses, and also for climate change studies.
“This astronomy centre will be used as a research centre and we will encourage our students, whether Muslims or non-Muslims, to study astronomy,” said Abang Johari.
Adding on, the chief minister said astronomy had inter-relation with digital economy too, adding that the spectrum of astronomy was also about sending signals via satellites.
“Telecommunication connects through signals. Therefore, astronomy is relatable and has been affecting human lives in many ways.
“That being said, it is important for us to nurture in the young ones the interest in this field of astronomy,” he said, adding that the state government would do its best in develop ‘ilmu falak’ education.
Also present at the event yesterday were Assistant Minister in Chief Minister’s Department (Kuching North City Commission and Islamic Affairs) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, Deputy State Secretary (Socioeconomic Transformation) Dato Sri Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, Assistant Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Sebastian Ting, Lambir assemblyman Ripin Lamat, Sarawak Islamic Council president Datu Misnu Taha, Mufti of Sarawak Datu Kipli Yassin, Department of Islamic Affairs Sarawak (Jais) director Khalidi Ibrahim, Miri Resident Abdul Aziz Mohd Yusuf and Mayor Adam Yii.