JPA Daily Buzz - Edisi 31 2026

page 3 Because of this, Malaysia adopts an approach that combines calculation and observation. Astronomical data helps determine whether the moon has reached the necessary position to be visible, while the official moon sighting confirms whether the crescent can actually be observed. In other words, the calendar provides a strong prediction, but the moon sighting remains an important final confirmation. Modern astronomy allows scientists to calculate the position of the moon with remarkable precision. Astronomers can predict: when the moon will rise above the horizon how long it will remain visible how bright the crescent will appear. Because of this, Malaysia uses a combination of astronomical calculations and physical observation, an approach commonly referred to as rukyah and hisab. This ensures that the determination of Islamic months remains both scientifically informed and religiously grounded . For many Malaysians, the moon sighting announcement has become a familiar moment every year. Families gather around the television after Maghrib. Children listen closely. Adults begin calculating whether they need to take leave from work the next day. When the announcement finally confirms the start of Syawal, the excitement begins. Last-minute preparations continue late into the night and the next morning, Hari Raya begins. Every year, as Malaysians wait for the official announcement, a playful question often appears in family WhatsApp groups or casual conversations at home: “Will it be a surprise Raya this year?” Sometimes, even with all the calendars, predictions and preparations, the final answer still depends on a thin crescent moon quietly appearing in the evening sky. Dr. Diyana Hassim Head of Corporate Communications Public Service Department