By: Rosli Mansor Ahmad Razali
Pasir Panjang, Segari – A group of 33 second-semester Geomatics Diploma students from Politeknik Ungku Omar (PUO) recently had the opportunity to participate in a hilal (crescent moon) observation programme to determine the beginning of Ramadan 1446H/2025M.
Held at Baitul Hilal Pasir Panjang in Segari, Perak, the programme provided students with practical experience in Islamic astronomy while enhancing their understanding of hilal observation methods.
The event also saw the participation of eight Geomatics Diploma lecturers, who guided students through the observation techniques and shared insights with the local community on the significance of this practice in determining the start of Ramadan.
PUO’s involvement in the programme was at the invitation of the Perak Mufti Department, allowing students and faculty members to engage with the local community and deepen public awareness of the role of Islamic astronomy in lunar-based calendar determinations.
According to Lailatul Rahmah Nekmat, the initiative was more than just an academic exercise.
“This programme not only exposes students to Islamic astronomy but also strengthens ties between educational institutions and the community.
“We hope it benefits students while raising public awareness of the scientific methods used in determining the beginning of Ramadan,” she said.
Such programmes are expected to produce graduates who are not only skilled in geomatics but also well-versed in aspects of Islamic astronomy relevant to their field.
Student participation in this observation activity marks an important step in fostering interest in Islamic astronomical studies among the younger generation.
Additionally, the programme provided students with the opportunity to interact with Falak (Islamic astronomy) experts and key authorities involved in lunar calendar determinations.
Through knowledge-sharing sessions, they gained deeper insights into the technical aspects and modern technologies used in hilal observation, further strengthening their competitiveness in the field.
