Manjung: A total of RM38.65 million has been allocated for the proposed construction of the Perak State Observatory at Pantai Pasir Panjang, Manjung, which will become the state's official Islamic astronomy (falak) observation center, thereby strengthening the development of falak and astronomy in Perak.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad stated that the development of the facility was proposed during the Perak State Observatory Construction Incentive Workshop held from May 19 to 20. The workshop involved the Perak State Mufti Department, the Public Works Department (JKR), the State Finance Office, and the Perak State Economic Planning Unit (UPEN).
Saarani elaborated that the construction of the Perak State Observatory in the Pantai Pasir Panjang area, Segari, Manjung, will span an area of approximately 94 hectares. This area is among the locations scrutinized as it is already linked to the state's official crescent moon observation activities. He emphasized that such a facility demonstrates that Islamic astronomy should be accessible to schools, universities, mosques, surau, youth communities, and families through simple language and engaging approaches.
He made these remarks after officiating the Launch of the Perak State-Level Falak Month for the Year 1448H/2026 at the Impiana Hotel. Saarani added that the establishment of the Perak State Observatory will not affect the function of the Tan Sri Harussani Observatory at the National Land and Survey Institute (INSTUN) in Behrang, but rather will complement the ecosystem of falak and astronomy facilities in the state.
Saarani reassured that the existing observatory will continue to function as before, and the new observatory at Pantai Pasir Panjang will further complete the falak facilities in the state without affecting the role of the existing one. He also commented that the Falak Month programme should be expanded to open the public's eyes to the importance of this knowledge in daily life.
He noted that there is still a perception that Islamic astronomy is only for religious officers or technical experts and that it is viewed as a difficult field by some young people due to its calculations, specialized terms, and observation methods. Saarani stressed that by organizing such programmes, people will learn that falak is closely related to daily life, crucial in worship, and beneficial to the intellectual development of the community.