The Observatory for Astronomy (OIF) Universitas MUhammadiyah Sumatera Utara (OIF UMSU) has collaborated with the Mufti Office of Sarawak Malaysia. This is related to the invitation of OIF UMSU as one of the astronomical institutions belonging to the Muhammadiyah organization, which has facilities for international activities with the title ‘Exhibition in Sempena Karnival Falak Nusantara.’ Held for five days, Thursday – Monday (6-10/7) in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.
In this activity, OIF UMSU had the opportunity to hold an exhibition of astronomical tools, such as products and books on astronomy (Falak Sciences) that had been produced. Head of OIF UMSU, Dr. Arwin Juli Rakhmadi Butar-Butar, M.A pinned ulos to the Mufti of Sarawak, Sahibus Samahah Datu Haji Kipli bin Haji Yassin, accompanied by several other mufti officials. Arwin embeds ulos as a form of gratitude and an effort to build cooperation between the two parties, especially in one of the sections and functions in the Sarawak Mufti Office, namely Astronomy (astronomy), such as the beginning of the month, eclipses, Qibla, and prayer times.
This collaboration is related to Mufti’s statement that soon, Sarawak will build a world-class observatory, possibly the largest in Southeast Asia. Because of that, the collaboration in this field needs to be followed up.
“This is a good and positive first step that should be followed up, and as for the Archipelago Carnival event, this is a form of cooperation,” said Dr. Arwin.
The head of the UMSU OIF also thanked the noble Mufti Sarawak directly for the invitation and facilities given to the UMSU OIF Team to participate in the ‘Falak Nusantara Archipelago Celebration Exhibition.’
