Sabah State al-Biruni Observatory

Overlooking the coast at Tanjung Dumpil, the Sabah State Al-Biruni Observatory serves as Sabah's official moon-sighting site for the Islamic lunar calendar and a centre for falak (Islamic astronomy) education.

About Sabah State Al-Biruni Observatory

Construction of the observatory began in 2004, and it was designed as a catalyst for education, research, and astro-tourism in the region. It is one of five astrofiqh observatories in Malaysia, run by the State Mufti Department, and it participates in wider scientific and astronomical networks.

Telescopes & research

The observatory's core purpose is moon-sighting for religious calendar purposes alongside falak education and research, combining Islamic jurisprudence with practical astronomical observation. Plans have called for developing the site further as an astro-tourism hub with upgraded equipment and visitor facilities.

Location & getting there

The observatory is set at Tanjung Dumpil on the coast of Sabah, on the island of Borneo in Malaysia, offering open horizons useful for lunar observation.

Visiting Sabah State Al-Biruni Observatory

As a public education and research centre, the observatory welcomes visitor interest in its astro-tourism role, though it's worth confirming current opening arrangements with the State Mufti Department before travelling.

See your named star from here

Beyond its moon-sighting work, any dark sky over Sabah is a place to trace the coordinates of a named star. Explore other named stars in our catalogue.