Lunar Crescent Visibility Criteria in Determining the New Islamic Month in Malaysia

Abstract

The visibility of the lunar crescent holds fundamental importance in determining the start of new months in the Islamic calendar, a practice deeply embedded in Islamic culture and religious obligations. In Malaysia, the method of establishing the beginning of an Islamic month has evolved, reflecting a blend of historical tradition and modern scientific advancements. This article comprehensively analyses the historical, cultural, and religious factors that have shaped the criteria for lunar crescent visibility in Malaysia. Traditional methods, primarily reliant on naked-eye observations known as rukyah, have long played a central role, guided by religious teachings and communal practices. However, with growing advancements in astronomical knowledge, Malaysia has incorporated hisab (astronomical calculations) to predict and verify the visibility of the crescent moon more accurately.

In recent years, adopting the NEO MABIMS has marked a significant advancement. This framework combines traditional practices with scientific precision, offering standardized guidelines incorporating parameters such as the moon's altitude, elongation, and age at sunset. This study underscores the importance of balancing religious practices with scientific methodologies, emphasizing the ongoing evolution and integration of both approaches in Malaysia’s approach to crescent sighting. The adoption of the NEO MABIMS not only enhances accuracy but also promotes regional consistency and unity in the observance of Islamic months, particularly important for occasions such as Ramadan, Shawwal, and Dzulhijjah. By examining these developments, this study illustrates Malaysia's approach as a model for harmonizing tradition with innovation in the broader context of Islamic astronomy.