BINTULU: The Bintulu Astronomy Centre has been urged to forge strategic collaborations with local institutions and relevant agencies to strengthen astronomy-related research, education and tourism in Sarawak.
Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, said such partnerships could involve Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Sarawak, iCATS, the Centre for Technology Excellence Sarawak (CENTEXS), as well as the Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA) to promote a more structured and integrated approach to astronomy.
“We also hope this centre will serve as a catalyst for producing new talent in the field of astronomy, individuals who can one day contribute to satellite research, airspace mapping, and even applications in defence and security,” he said at the official opening ceremony of the Bintulu Astronomy Centre on Tuesday (Aug 12).
Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, DBKU and Islamic Affairs), Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, represented the Premier at the ceremony.
Abang Johari emphasised that astronomy, historically rooted in Islamic civilisation, remains relevant today as a bridge between science, technology and spiritual values.
He noted that Islamic scholars such as Al-Khawarizmi, Al-Farghani, Al-Tusi and Ulugh Beg not only advanced astronomical research but also influenced global scientific development, with applications in timekeeping, navigation, agriculture, and environmental sustainability.
“In the modern context, astronomy encompasses astrophysics, cosmology and the observation of cosmic phenomena, deepening our understanding of the universe while reinforcing humility before the greatness of Allah,” he said.
Abang Johari also highlighted the centre’s strategic location, far from urban light pollution, as ideal for precise astronomical observations.
“Astronomy cannot be conducted effectively without a clean environment and freedom from light pollution.
“This reinforces that the development of astronomy is in line with SDG 13: Climate Action, as well as Sarawak’s green technology agenda by 2050,” he said.
The ceremony was officiated by the Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, who was accompanied by his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.
“We also hope this centre will serve as a catalyst for producing new talent in the field of astronomy, individuals who can one day contribute to satellite research, airspace mapping, and even applications in defence and security,” he said at the official opening ceremony of the Bintulu Astronomy Centre on Tuesday (Aug 12).
Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, DBKU and Islamic Affairs), Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, represented the Premier at the ceremony.
Abang Johari emphasised that astronomy, historically rooted in Islamic civilisation, remains relevant today as a bridge between science, technology and spiritual values.
He noted that Islamic scholars such as Al-Khawarizmi, Al-Farghani, Al-Tusi and Ulugh Beg not only advanced astronomical research but also influenced global scientific development, with applications in timekeeping, navigation, agriculture, and environmental sustainability.
“In the modern context, astronomy encompasses astrophysics, cosmology and the observation of cosmic phenomena, deepening our understanding of the universe while reinforcing humility before the greatness of Allah,” he said.
Abang Johari also highlighted the centre’s strategic location, far from urban light pollution, as ideal for precise astronomical observations.
“Astronomy cannot be conducted effectively without a clean environment and freedom from light pollution.
“This reinforces that the development of astronomy is in line with SDG 13: Climate Action, as well as Sarawak’s green technology agenda by 2050,” he said.
The ceremony was officiated by the Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, who was accompanied by his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.