SERDANG, 6 April 2026 – The Institute of Plantation Studies (IKP), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), recently carried out a program to determine the qibla direction at the IKP premises in collaboration with the Persatuan Jurufalak Syarie. The determination was led by Mr. Jusrizalman Jamaludin, an experienced jurufalak, who applied the sun shadow method as the primary reference to ensure the accuracy of the qibla direction. The sun shadow method is one of the traditional techniques proven to be effective and precise in determining the qibla. Through this method, the position of the sun is used as a guide to identify the correct qibla line. This process is not only easy to implement, but it also provides confidence to the IKP community that the qibla direction used is valid and aligned with recognized astronomical methods.

Determining the qibla direction holds great importance in the lives of Muslims. The qibla is not merely a physical direction, but a symbol of unity among Muslims in performing prayers. Errors in determining the qibla can affect the perfection of worship; therefore, efforts to ensure its accuracy must be taken seriously. With this re-determination, the IKP community can perform prayers with greater peace of mind and assurance that their worship is carried out in accordance with proper Islamic guidelines. In addition, this program also provided exposure to the IKP community on the significance of astronomy (ilmu falak) in daily life. It demonstrates that astronomy is not only related to scientific studies of celestial bodies but also plays an important role in aspects of Islamic worship. With the implementation of this qibla determination, IKP UPM once again shows its commitment to safeguarding the spiritual well-being of its community, while emphasizing the importance of worship authenticity as part of overall well-being.

Date of Input: 14/04/2026 | Updated: 14/04/2026 | ainzubaidah