Observers in Penang gather to sight the Syawal crescent, combining rukyah and hisab to decide Hari Raya Aidilfitri date
BALIK PULAU: At Penang’s western edge, where the horizon meets the sea and sky, the search for the Syawal crescent is both a scientific exercise and a matter of faith—an age-old ritual that determines the beginning of Hari Raya Aidilfitri for millions.
Earlier, more than 100 people gathered at the Sheikh Tahir Astronomy Centre in Penang to witness the crescent moon sighting, part of a nationwide effort to confirm the start of the festive month.
The centre, recognised as Malaysia’s oldest astronomy facility, is strategically located at the westernmost point of the state. Its position — approximately five degrees and 24 minutes north of the equator and 100 degrees and 11 minutes east of the prime meridian — makes it one of the country’s key sites for astronomical observation.
The observation was carried out by a team from the Penang State Mufti Office and the Department of Survey and Mapping Malaysia (JUPEM), alongside astronomers at the centre.
Penang Mufti Sahibus Samahah Professor Datuk Dr Mohd Sukki Othman said the practice of moon sighting remains vital despite advances in astronomical calculations.
“Observing the crescent moon is not just a tradition; it is the implementation of the religious text mentioned by the Prophet Muhammad PBUH.
“We follow both calculation methods and physical observation. Sometimes calculations alone indicate the moon may not be visible, but if rukyah (physical moon sighting) detects it, that takes priority.
“If the crescent is not seen, then we rely on hisab (astronomical calculations). The official decision for each state is then submitted to the Keeper of the Rulers’ Seal on behalf of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong for an official announcement,” he said.
In Malaysia, the determination of Aidilfitri is guided by a combination of hisab and rukyah, using the Imkanur Rukyah criteria that set specific conditions for the new moon’s visibility.
Under this system, the moon must first reach conjunction — when it aligns with the sun and the earth — before sunset. It must then meet at least one of two conditions: be at least two degrees above the horizon and three degrees from the sun at sunset, or be at least eight hours old when it sets.
If the crescent is sighted, Aidilfitri is declared the following day. If not, Muslims complete 30 days of Ramadan before celebrating.
However, officials at the Penang site confirmed that the crescent moon was not visible during yesterday’s observation.
A representative explained that visibility depends on strict scientific and environmental factors.
“The crescent must be at least three degrees above the horizon after sunset, with a minimum angular separation of 6.4 degrees from the sun. Weather conditions are crucial—clouds or haze can prevent visibility. The crescent moon was not sighted in Penang today (yesterday),” the representative said.
“The observation process is highly technical. Telescopes project the moon onto screens for viewers, while instruments such as total stations ensure precise measurements.
“The crescent is visible for only about 15 minutes after sunset, making timing critical. Local geography and weather conditions also play a role, which is why observations are conducted nationwide.”
For many who turned up — families, children and first-time observers — the experience offered a rare glimpse into the meticulous process behind the declaration of Syawal, where science, faith and tradition converge to mark one of the most significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar.
The Sun Malaysia
