In a captivating exchange of scholarly insights, Dr. Ahmad Junaidi, M.H.I., the Manager of the Balai Rukyat Ibn Syatir at Boarding School of Al-Islam Joresan Ponorogo, Indonesia, graced the halls of the Academy of Islamic Studies at the University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, as a distinguished guest lecturer. The event, held on June 9, 2024, witnessed the convergence of minds as scholars delved into the theme of “Reviving the Islamic Astronomy Civilization in Indonesia.”
The occasion commenced with a warm welcome from Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ikhlas bin Rosele, Head of the Department of Fiqh and Usul, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Khadher bin Ahmad, Deputy Dean for Student Affairs. Their opening remarks set the stage for an intellectually stimulating discourse that would unfold throughout the day.
The Manager of Ibnu Syatir at “Al Islam Islamic Boarding School” Ponorogo, renowned for his expertise in Islamic astronomy, delivered a captivating presentation on the revival of Islamic astronomy civilization in Indonesia. Drawing from his extensive research and practical experience at the Rukyat Observatory, Dr. Junaidi shed light on the historical significance of Islamic astronomy in the region and its relevance in the contemporary era.
One of the highlights of Dr. Junaidi’s lecture was the presentation of his latest book, “Astrophotography: Adoption and Implementation in Lunar Sighting in Indonesia,” which has been gaining traction among scholars and enthusiasts alike. This valuable resource offers insights into the practical aspects of astronomy observation and has garnered attention for its innovative approach to lunar sighting methodologies.
The lecture also featured Prof. Madya Dr. Mohd Saiful Anwar bin Mohd Nawawi from the University of Malaya, who presented his research on “The Development of Islamic Astronomy in Malaysia.” His comparative analysis provided a broader perspective on the evolution of Islamic astronomy across different regions, enriching the discussion with diverse insights.
The event attracted a diverse audience of senior students and faculty members, all eager to engage with the speakers and deepen their understanding of Islamic astronomy. Dr. Junaidi’s passionate advocacy for the revival of this ancient science resonated with attendees, sparking lively discussions and prompting reflections on the cultural and scientific heritage of the Islamic world.
Following the lecture, Dr. Junaidi graciously presented copies of his book to officials from the Academy of Islamic Studies at the University of Malaya and several faculty members specializing in Islamic astronomy. The gesture was met with appreciation, underscoring the significance of scholarly collaboration and knowledge exchange in advancing the study of Islamic sciences.
In conclusion, Dr. Ahmad Junaidi’s participation as a guest lecturer at the University of Malaya’s Academy of Islamic Studies provided a valuable opportunity for cross-cultural dialogue and academic exchange. His insightful presentation and the distribution of his book have furthered the discourse on Islamic astronomy, inspiring scholars to explore new avenues for research and collaboration in this rich and ancient field of study.
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