BINTULU: The Bintulu Astronomy Centre is set to become Sarawak’s hub for astronomical research, education, and astro-tourism, with state-of-the-art facilities designed to advance both Islamic ilmu falak and modern space science.
“It is a centre of knowledge that will bring significant benefits to Muslims and the wider community,” said Sarawak Mufti, Datuk Kipli Yassin at the official opening ceremony of the Bintulu Astronomy Centre on Tuesday (Aug 12)
He said among its core functions is to serve as an Observation and Calendar Centre, conducting rukyah (moon sighting) and observing celestial bodies such as the crescent moon, sun, planets, and other astronomical phenomena.
“With advanced optical equipment, we can ensure all observations are conducted with high accuracy and quality,” Kipli explained.
Furthermore, he said the centre will also function as a research hub, offering facilities for researchers and astronomy experts to advance ilmu falak and space science.
“This centre creates opportunities for innovation and new discoveries that will contribute to the global scientific community.
“As an education and training facility, the Bintulu Astronomy Centre will offer courses and training programmes covering astronomy from both religious and scientific perspectives.
“It will serve as a main reference point for teaching and learning astronomy within the Muslim community,” Kipli added.
In addition, he said the centre will play a unique role as an astro-tourism attraction, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of the universe through state-of-the-art equipment.
“This will encourage public interest in astronomy while also promoting tourism in Sarawak,” he noted.
Kipli emphasised that the centre aligns with the Sarawak Mufti Department’s Strategic Plan to be a credible, progressive, and trusted institution, in line with the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
“Our focus is on human capital development, technological advancement, education, and sustaining knowledge in the religious sector,” he said.
The Bintulu Astronomy Centre, officially completed in 2022, was developed through collaboration between state government departments and agencies.
It is strategically located at Tanjung Batu, the former site of the Bintulu Rukyah Hilal Station.
The project was designed by the Sarawak Public Works Department (PWD) based on concepts provided by the Sarawak Mufti Department.
The building was handed over on March 22, 2023 in a ceremony attended by Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, the Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, Kuching North City Commission and Islamic Affairs).
It aims to build on the success of the Miri Astronomy Centre, which has already proven the value of such facilities through public engagement programmes.
From 2021 to July 2025, more than 4,700 visitors from government and private agencies, schools, NGOs, and the public participated in initiatives, including monthly moon sightings, night sky observations, open days, and basic astronomy courses.
“These achievements show that astronomy is increasingly embraced not only as a religious obligation but also as a holistic approach to education, outreach, and science,” Kipli added.
