Bandar Seri Begawan – As Brunei Darussalam prepares for Visit Brunei Year 2027 – a campaign coinciding with His Majesty the Sultan’s Diamond Jubilee – the nation is opening its pristine natural rainforests and dark sky to a rapidly growing frontier in newly eco-tourism: Astrotourism.

Last night, June 20, 2026, the Astronomical Society of Brunei Darussalam (PABD) highlighted the sultanate’s stellar potential during a astrotourism showcase held under the “Nature Exploration” theme at the premier pre-launching ceremony of the Visit Brunei Year 2027 at Jerudong Park Garden.

The event reached a high point with a special royal visit. The PABD expressed its deepest gratitude and Menjunjung Kasih to His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen ibni Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Anisha Rosnah binti Adam, who graced the showcase to support the nation’s expanding nature and astronomy tourism sector.

Supported by the Tourism Development Department, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, the exhibition emphasized how Brunei’s pristine, unpolluted night skies offer a serene and captivating space for exploration, seamlessly blending eco-tourism with the wonders of the cosmos.

During the visit, Their Highnesses spent time engaging with the local astronomy community. In a highly meaningful moment for astronomy outreach in Brunei, Their Highnesses graciously signed one of the PABD’s telescopes, cementing their support for the society’s educational and tourism initiatives.

The PABD and Tourism Development Department have been working closely to identify and protect pristine viewing sites for Milkyway observation and stargazing spots. With over 80% of its land covered in lush, undisturbed rainforest and a population density that keeps light pollution remarkably low, Brunei offers some of the most spectacular dark skies in Southeast Asia. Combined with its equatorial location at 4.9° N, visitors can experience year-round visibility of southern celestial phenomena that are invisible from the Northern Hemisphere.

With Visit Brunei Year 2027 on the horizon, the showcase served as a powerful reminder of the unique, untouched beauty Brunei has to offer. The PABD and Brunei Tourism are extending an open invitation to both locals and international travelers and amateur astronomers, especially strategic partners, to join in experiencing this celestial charm, and discover the universe from the heart of Borneo’s lush rainforests.

For more information, browse the official Visit Brunei Year 2027 website: https://www.bruneitourism.com/vby2027/

Based on the preliminary analysis provided by the International Meteor Organization (IMO) database for Event 4347-2026, a detailed breakdown of the fireball’s trajectory and the associated eyewitness reports:

Event Overview: A fireball was sighted over Brunei and Sabah on Sunday, June 14, 2026, around 20:14 local time.

Eyewitness Reports: Four witnesses from Bandar Seri Begawan, Jerudong, Rasau, and Kudat reported the event, observing it for 3.5 to 7.5 seconds with intense brightness (magnitudes ranging from -5 to -13).

Trajectory & Path: The meteor traveled entirely offshore over the South China Sea, moving away from the Borneo coast in a North-Northwest (NNW) direction. It appears to have originated a few dozen kilometers off the coast of Brunei-Muara before heading deeper into the ocean. The starting point appears to begin off the northern coast of Borneo, near the maritime border of Brunei and Sabah, over the South China Sea. The meteor traveled in a North-Northwest (NNW) direction. The visible trajectory ends further out in the South China Sea, moving away from the coastline. It did not cross directly over land based on this calculated path.

By Hazarry bin Haji Ali Ahmad
The Astronomical Society of Brunei Darussalam
June 14, 2026

Bandar Seri Begawan – Bruneians were fortunate on Sunday evening to witness a rare and striking celestial show. At approximately 8:30 p.m. local time on June 14, 2026, a brilliantly bright green meteor tore through the atmosphere, leaving a vivid, glowing trail in its wake.

The Astronomical Society of Brunei Darussalam (PABD) received a surge of reports, dashboard camera footage, and incidental videos capturing the event, confirming the meteor’s trajectory and striking coloration.

Based on the initial reports submitted to PABD, the meteor appeared unusually large -consistent with a fireball – travelling at high velocity and illuminating the sky for approximately two to three seconds before fading. None of the witnesses reported any signs of fragmentation as it passed through the atmosphere. Instead, they described a sudden, vivid emerald flash that briefly lit up the night sky.

Among the locals who captured the breathtaking moment was Umair Akmal, who caught the event at 8:33 p.m. on his dashcam while driving through Lambak. He described the meteor as a solid green streak with a distinct trail that lasted for about two seconds. Struck by the rarity of the event, Umair noted that the bright green hue made it one of the most unusual celestial sights he had ever personally witnessed.

Around the same time, 27-year-old Khadijah Azami also recorded the fireball on her car camcorder while driving through Sungai Akar, heading toward the ISB-One City traffic light. She observed the meteor traveling in a southwest direction, describing the object as big, fast, and vividly green. Khadijah noted that the vibrant color was accompanied by a distinct, bright white flash as it flared up over a three-second span.

In astronomical terms, not every “shooting star” qualifies as a fireball. According to the International Astronomical Union (IAU), a fireball is defined as a meteor that reaches an apparent magnitude of –4 or brighter, exceeding the brilliance of Venus. All of eyewitnesses’ footages captured clearly demonstrates why Sunday’s event meets this criterion.

In another fortunate turn, Shahrazen Said shared a video captured by one of his team members, who recorded the fireball entirely by chance. In his Instagram Story caption, he explained that while filming footage for the football event Project WASP: The Next Level Training, the bright green object descended above the treeline and passed through the background of the shot. He later submitted the remarkable footage to PABD’s Instagram page, noting his surprise at having unintentionally recorded what he initially thought might be a comet falling from the sky.

While sightings of ordinary “shooting stars” are relatively common, the appearance of a bright green fireball is a far more exceptional phenomenon. Its distinctive colour is closely linked to the meteoroid’s chemical composition. As the object enters Earth’s atmosphere at extremely high velocity, the resulting friction generates intense heat, causing the meteoroid to vaporize. The vivid green emission is typically associated with the presence of magnesium or nickel within the material. When these metallic elements vaporize under extreme temperatures, they emit light predominantly in the green portion of the spectrum. This process produces the striking emerald trail reported across Brunei tonight.

The PABD is still actively collecting data to triangulate the exact size and trajectory of Sunday night’s fireball. Anyone who witnessed the green meteor or has dashcam or CCTV footage from around 8:30 p.m. is strongly encouraged to submit an official fireball report to the International Meteor Organization (IMO) – this event is officially catalogued and numbered as 4347-2026. By contributing to the IMO’s global citizen-science database, local observers can directly aid astronomers worldwide in tracking these incredible celestial events.

The programme began on the afternoon of May 16, with participants assembling at the Jerudong Park car park before departing in a 25 4x4WD vehicle line up. The convoy involved members of Brunei Overland and Expedition Group, BNSTYLE, and Jimny Brunei, who collaborated to support the journey into the rural interior.

Upon arrival shortly before sunset, the group was welcomed by Yang Mulia Haji Yassin bin Abdul Rahim Sap, the head representative of Rumah Panjang Julangan Titah Melilas. A safety briefing and programme overview were delivered, after which participants proceeded to set up their tents for the overnight stay.

During the evening stargazing session, participants learned to identify constellations and observed the planet Jupiter along with its largest moons before cloud cover temporarily obscured the sky. As conditions improved in the early hours of the morning, around 3 am, the clouds parted to reveal a striking view of the Milky Way arching across the horizon. Present during the observation were Yang Mulia Shahronizam bin Haji Md Noh, Penghulu Mukim Sukang, together with local villagers who joined the session.

With the Moon nearing its old phase, the rural landscape of Melilas – one of Brunei’s rare sanctuaries with a Bortle Class 2 Typical Truly Dark Sky rating – offered exceptional conditions for stargazing. Under these pristine skies, participants clearly observed the bright core of the Milky Way with the naked eye and captured astrophotography images with the guidance of 15 PABD members. The natural darkness of Melilas revealed the Milky Way in intricate, marbled detail, visible unaided in a way seldom experienced elsewhere in the country.

Muhammad Arif bin Ismail, Programme Coordinator for Dark Sky Melilas Adventure 2026, expressed PABD’s aspirations for the initiative, noting that the association aims “to increase public interest and knowledge, especially among the younger generation in rural areas, in the field of astronomy; to create greater awareness about preserving the natural environment from light pollution; and to make this expedition a catalyst for efforts to preserve dark sky areas in the country.” He also underscored the importance of strengthening collaboration with government agencies and local communities to expand access to astronomy and falak syarie educational activities, particularly in rural regions.

Beyond astronomy activities, the programme also featured a community outreach component led by the participants. Donations of food supplies and essential items were distributed to 14 families residing at the Rumah Panjang, while colouring books were presented to children in the village. PABD additionally contributed a dark sky awareness poster to the head representative of the long house as part of ongoing efforts to promote the protection of natural night skies.

The programme concluded with a closing speech by Hazarry bin Haji Ali Ahmad, PABD Secretary‑General, followed by the recital of Doa Selamat. Participants then commenced their journey back to the Jerudong checkpoint, marking the successful and memorable conclusion of Dark Sky Melilas Adventure 2026.

Press Release

This curated astrotourism event combines scientific exploration with local culture. Participants will engage in guided stargazing sessions, alongside a cultural visit to the Julangan Titah Rumah Panjang, hosted by the Majlis Perundingan Kampong (MPK) Melilas, Ulu Belait.

Adventurers will travel via 4×4 vehicles to the heart of the wilderness for an overnight camping expedition. Please note that transportation, meals, and additional activities can be arranged subject to availability and may incur charges.

Registration is now open for those ready to witness the universe in its most natural state: https://bruneiastronomy.org/darkskymelilas/

The event was co-organized by the Astronomical Society of Brunei Darussalam (PABD) and the Peliunan Park Management.

Under a clear sky, participants recorded 99 bright meteors with few fireballs between 10 pm and 5 am – an average of 14 meteors per hour (ZHR) – streaking from the constellation Lyra.

With the Moon setting early, the suburban dark skies of Batu Apoi offered ideal conditions for viewing the annual meteor shower, produced as debris from Comet C/1861 G1 (Thatcher) entered Earth’s atmosphere at extreme velocity, leaving glowing ionized trails.

The event commenced in the afternoon on April 22 with tent setups and registration, transitioning into an “All-night Stargazing” session in the evening. Participants were treated to views of the Moon, planet Jupiter and bright deep-sky objects through the optical telescopes and smart telescopes.

The event comprised a specialized astronomy talk by the PABD Secretary General, Hazarry bin Haji Ali Ahmad. The presentation covered the science of the Lyrids meteor shower and raised critical dark sky awareness, emphasizing the importance of protecting the night from light pollution.

Held in conjunction with International Dark Sky Week, the session served as a call to action for the local community to join the global movement for dark sky preservation. By committing to responsible lighting, participants joined a worldwide effort to curb light pollution and protect the visibility of our universe and astronomical phenomena for the next generation

“Witnessing so many people connect with the night sky to watch the celestial wonder is truly inspiring,” expressed Hidayatullah bin Ahmad, PABD Programme Coordinator. “AstroCamp is more than just a meteor shower; it’s about building awareness, igniting a sense of wonder, and reminding us that we must all work together to preserve the natural darkness of our universe.”

Under the theme “Dark Skies, Falling Stars,” the program featured a dedicated Milky Way hunt and the “First Light” Lyrids Astrophotography Challenge. After observations concluded at astronomical twilight, participants gathered for the prize presentation. Muhammad Arif bin Ismail was named the astrophotography champion, taking home a Dobsonian telescope.

Photos by: Ak Muhd Adi Zulhilmi Bin Pg Yakub / PABD

PRESS RELEASED

The night features guided stargazing, planetary viewing, milky way hunting and the “First Light” Astrophotography Challenge, where the first attendee to capture a meteor alongside the Milky Way wins a Dobsonian telescope. To preserve the viewing environment, a strict “Red Light Only” policy will be enforced after 10:00 PM to protect everyone’s night vision.

Spaces are limited and registration is required. Pack your camping gear and head to Kampong Batu Apoi for an unforgettable night of “Dark Skies and Falling Stars.” For more details or to book your slot, visit https://bruneiastronomy.org/web/meteorcamp2026/

Summary: From Papar’s new observatory to Kota Belud’s rivers and Kudat’s legendary dark skies, our Ramadan Milkyway Hunt 2026 became an adventure of shared stories, coastal cooking, stargazing marathons, and breathtaking landscapes – a journey where Sabah’s beauty, its people, and the cosmos came together in one unforgettable experience. Most of all, we travelled with incredible people, AstroFalak expert, Dark Sky Rangers, and friends who turned every moment into a memory. A celestial travelogue.

From 20 to 24 February 2026, our journey unfolded across the sweeping landscapes of Kota Kinabalu, Papar, Kota Belud, and Kudat – five days on the road in two cars, tracing the northern curve of Borneo in search of its darkest skies. Sabah has long been whispered about among stargazers as one of Southeast Asia’s most promising frontiers: vast stretches of countryside untouched by heavy light pollution, horizons that open wide in every direction, and coastal plains where the night sky rises unobstructed from the sea. Under these conditions, the Milky Way reveals its full glory, meteor trails carve bright arcs overhead, and deep‑sky objects emerge with a clarity rarely seen in more urban settings. Drawn by this promise, seven members of the Astronomical Society of Brunei Darussalam (PABD) set out to experience Sabah’s celestial wilderness firsthand – an overland expedition shaped by curiosity, camaraderie, and the timeless pull of the stars.

Our first stop was the Kompleks Balai Cerap Saizwagger 2 in Papar, an observatory operated by Dr. Hj. Sairin, an astrofalak expert. The building itself reflected a strong astronomy theme, with planetary designs throughout the interior. Even the small details, such as bedsheets and floor tiles designed with compass directions, created a space that felt intentionally connected to celestial observation. From the sixth floor, the landscape stretched across distant mountains and hazy horizons, illustrating how observatories are often located in elevated areas to minimise atmospheric obstruction and artificial light.

The night sky at Papar was one of the most memorable moments of the trip. In the early hours before dawn, the Milky Way appeared clearly across the sky, stretching horizontally along the horizon. Because the surrounding area has relatively low light pollution, the structure of the galaxy was visible to the naked eye. The densest and brightest part of the band was the Galactic Center, the region where billions of stars are concentrated around the core of our galaxy. Seeing this glowing band of light above us gave a powerful sense of scale, reminding us that our solar system exists within a much larger cosmic structure. Also, during the observation session, we spotted meteors streaking across the sky and identified several constellations such as Scorpius, Norma, Ara, Sagittarius, and more.

The following morning, we travelled to Kota Belud and stayed at Tagudon Tourist Village, located near the foothills of Mount Kinabalu. The campsite offered clear views of both the river and the surrounding mountains, demonstrating another key factor in astronomical observation: open landscapes with minimal visual obstructions. That evening, we met Emma Zulaiha Zulkifli, founder of Dark Sky Malaysia, who shared insights about public astronomy outreach and efforts to promote dark-sky awareness. Although rain prevented stargazing that night, discussions around the campfire highlighted the important role that astronomy communities play in fostering environmental awareness and scientific curiosity.

Our journey continued to Kudat, located at the northern edge of Borneo. Along the drive, we observed rural infrastructure, such as solar panels used to generate electricity in remote communities. These systems are particularly important in areas where reducing artificial light also helps preserve darker skies. After arriving in Kudat, we stopped by a small seashell stall near the beach. The stall sold real seashells collected from the coastline, ranging from RM5 to RM35 – Each of us bought one or two shells as souvenirs.

At night, we travelled to the Tip of Borneo, the northernmost point of the island. The coastal location offers unobstructed horizons facing the open sea, making it an ideal site for night-sky observation. During our observation session, we also learned how to use the Starsense Explorer, along with the Sky Map on the phone, to navigate the night sky. By using the digital sky map, we were able to identify constellations and immediately locate specific celestial objects such as stars, planets, and nebulae through the telescope. Using the digital smart telescope, ZWO Seestar S50, we captured images of the Orion Nebula and the star cluster Messier 67. Even with limited time and travel fatigue, the sky revealed countless stars, constellations, and distant galaxies.

The monument at the Tip of Borneo also reflects the place’s cultural history. Known locally as Tanjung Simpang Mangayau, it is connected to the history of the Rungus people, whose folklore describes the area as a place where their ancestors defended their territory. Learning about these stories added another layer of meaning to the landscape. It reminded us that places like this are not only beautiful for astronomy but also rich in culture and history.

Overall, the journey demonstrated why Sabah is increasingly recognised as a valuable stargazing destination. Its combination of rural landscapes, coastal horizons, and growing astronomy communities creates an environment where both science and cultural appreciation of the night sky can thrive.

Beyond the astronomical experiences and breathtaking landscapes, the journey was also meaningful because of the people who shared the experience together. My sincere appreciation goes to Uncle Azaharry, Ka Jannah, Ka Ema, Mumtazah, Nazhif, and Adi Zulhilmi for helping capture great photographs throughout the trip and for making the journey both smooth and memorable. Travelling together, sharing meals, preparing for iftar and sahur, and standing under the vast night sky made the experience even more meaningful. It is a journey that truly filled my heart with gratitude. Salam Ramadan.

SUMMARY:

Event Overview: While it was a total lunar eclipse, the view in Brunei was largely obscured by clouds. Despite the weather challenges, the event served as a significant gathering for the local astronomy community in the Sultanate.

Community Engagement: Bruneian enthusiasts and members of the Astronomical Society of Brunei Darussalam (PABD) engaged in private observations and shared the event via live feed of the phenomenon and social media to ensure others could still participate in the experience.

Future Eclipses: The next time a total lunar eclipse will coincide with Ramadan is July 7, 2047. Upcoming lunar events for Brunei include a partial lunar eclipse on July 6, 2028, and a total lunar eclipse on December 31, 2028 (extending into New Year’s Day 2029).

This eclipse was especially meaningful as it occurred in the evening of mid Ramadan, a month when many families in Brunei are having sungkai (breaking the fast) and nightly prayers. The timing of moonrise eclipse allowed more people than usual to step outside, look up, and experience the event together.

A specific alignment of the Sun, Earth and Moon must coincide with the middle of the holy month for such an event to occur. A total lunar eclipse during Ramadan is exceptionally rare, repeating only once every 22 Hijri years – or roughly every 45 eclipse seasons, equivalent to about 21 years in the Gregorian calendar.

Eclipse Largely Obscured, but Partial Phase Visible
The eclipse began with thick clouds covering most of the eastern horizon. Many skywatchers couldn’t see the early stages at all in Brunei, and even totality was mostly hidden behind the cloud layer. But the excitement didn’t fade -everyone kept watching, waiting, and hoping for gaps in the clouds.

However, clearer skies during the later part of the partial phase allowed observers to catch brief but rewarding views. The Moon’s emergence from Earth’s umbra was visible through gaps in the clouds, revealing the curved shadow line across the lunar surface.

PABD Members Gather for a Private Observation Session
Persatuan Astronomi Negara Brunei Darussalam (PABD) conducted a private observation session at the residence of one of its members in Tutong, attended by five members, while other members also carried out their own observations from home. Telescopes and imaging equipment were set up early, and although the team faced long periods of overcast skies, they remained prepared for any moment of clarity.

These observations provided scientific values and visual experience of the eclipse’s progression for first time eclipse chasers.

Live from Tutong
A live stream from Tutong ran from 6.45 pm to 9.45 pm, providing public access to the eclipse. Despite facing the same cloud challenges as on‑site observers, the broadcast successfully captured close‑up telescope views of the partial phase as it transitioned into the penumbral stage. Viewers followed along in real time, sharing comments, asking questions, and updating one another on weather conditions across the country.

The live stream via all bruneiastronomy digital platforms became a focal point for the public, allowing many to stay connected to the eclipse despite limited visibility in few areas in the Sultanate.

Community Sharing
Members of the Bruneiastronomy WhatsApp Group played an active role throughout the night. As clouds shifted across the country, participants shared their own photos, sky conditions, and observing setups. Several managed to capture partial-phase images, contributing to a collective record of the event:

Although the total lunar eclipse was largely obscured by clouds, the event highlighted the dedication and unity of Brunei’s astronomy community. Through private observations, live streaming, and active sharing among enthusiasts, the eclipse became more than a visual spectacle – it became a moment that brought people across the country together to look up at the sky.

The next time a total lunar eclipse coincides with Ramadan will be on 7 July 2047. Before that, Brunei will experience a partial lunar eclipse on 6 July 2028, followed by a total lunar eclipse on 31 December 2028, which will continue into new year 1 January 2029. Clear skies, and keep looking up!

Bandar Seri Begawan – Despite challenging weather conditions, a group of fourteen members of the Astronomical Society of Brunei Darussalam (PABD) successfully conducted naked-eye observations of the annual Geminids Meteor Shower in the early hours of Sunday, 14 December 2025 at Kampong Sungai Mau, Belait.

The event, known as the “Geminids AstroCamp”, was held from 12:30 AM to 2:30 AM, during which members gathered to witness the celestial display and capture it through photography. Based on observations documented by the team, approximately 50 Geminid meteors were sighted, including several striking fireballs, despite limited visibility.

One participant, Muhammad Hidayatullah bin Awang Ahmad shared: “It was a challenging night for viewing, with nearly 80% cloud cover and overcast skies for most of the session. Nevertheless, the meteors we managed to observe, particularly the brighter fireballs, made the effort worthwhile.”

Despite cloudy skies, PABD member Mohamad Nur Raziqqien bin Abu Bakar captured a vivid Geminid meteor streaking across the prominent Orion constellation, which lies right next to Gemini – the radiant of the meteor shower.

The Geminids are widely regarded as one of the most reliable and spectacular annual meteor showers, originating from asteroid 3200 Phaethon. This year’s observation coincided with the shower’s peak between the nights of 13 and 14 December 2025. Under ideal conditions, the Geminids can produce as many as 120 meteors per hour (ZHR), making them a highlight of the astronomical calendar.

Meteor showers take place when the Earth, in its yearly orbit around the Sun, crosses paths with streams of cosmic debris released by comets or asteroids. These tiny fragments, often no larger than grains of sand, enter the atmosphere at tremendous speeds and incandesce due to friction with air molecules, creating the luminous streaks commonly referred to as “shooting stars.”

PABD thanked the Bukit Sawat Village Consultative Council (Majlis Perundingan Kampung Bukit Sawat) for their invaluable support in facilitating the AstroCamp.

Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh dan salam sejahtera kepada semua yang hadir.

Terlebih dahulu, saya ucapkan selamat datang kepada bakal ahli-ahli baharu.

Alhamdulillah, pada hari yang penuh berkat ini, kita berhimpun dalam majlis orientasi yang bukan sahaja memperkenalkan persatuan, tetapi juga menyemai semangat kekitaan dan inspirasi dalam kalangan ahli baharu dan lama.

Persatuan Astronomi Negara Brunei Darussalam (PABD) ini lahir daripada impian kecil yang besar maknanya. 23 tahun yang lalu, sekitar tahun 2002, hanya berbelasan orang peminat astronomi yang berkumpul secara sukarela, berkongsi ilmu dengan minat terhadap langit malam. Dari pertemuan santai di tempat letak kereta dan memasang teleskop di kawasan-kawasan lapang untuk melihat anak bulan dan planet, lahirlah satu gerakan yang kini telah berkembang menjadi sebuah persatuan rasmi yang berdiri megah dengan perlembagaan, diiktiraf dan disegani di mata masyarakat.

Kini, keahlian kitani telah berkembang melebihi seratus orang dari pelbagai latar belakang -ada pelajar, guru, jurutera, doktor, ibu bapa – semua peminat ilmu falak astronomi. PABD bukan sekadar pertubuhan – ia adalah menjadi lambang bukti hasil kerja semangat perpaduan tinggi dengan minat yang tulus, dipupuk dengan komitmen yang teguh, mampu melahirkan sesuatu yang luar biasa dan bermakna.

Sepanjang perjalanan ini, ahli-ahli PABD sentiasa mendekatkan astronomi kepada masyarakat melalui pelbagai inisiatif. Antaranya termasuk cerapan umum fenomena langit, bengkel falak, ceramah astronomi, serta kolaborasi bersama institusi tempatan dan antarabangsa. Kita bukan sahaja menyebarkan ilmu astronomi, tetapi juga mengangkat warisan falak Melayu Brunei-Islam yang kaya dengan hikmah dan sejarah.

Majlis orientasi ini bertujuan untuk memperkenalkan struktur persatuan, etika berorganisasi, dan peluang-peluang yang tersedia kepada ahli baharu. Ia juga menjadi medan untuk membina jaringan (networking), berkongsi aspirasi, dan memahami peranan kita sebagai ahli yang sentiasa proaktif dan bertanggungjawab, serta sentiasa menjaga nama baik PABD.

Dalam berpersatuan, kita pegang teguh pada prinsip keikhlasan dan komitmen. Kita bukan berjuang untuk nama, tetapi untuk manfaat bersama. Setiap sumbangan – besar mahupun kecil, pengorbanan masa mahupun wang ringgit – kita niatkan sebagai sedekah ilmu lillahi ta‘ala, tanpa mengharap balasan. Saya mengharapkan ahli-ahli lama bersedia menjadi mentor kepada ahli-ahli baru, dengan memberikan sokongan yang berterusan, bimbingan ilmu secara praktikal, dan perkongsian pengalaman yang bermakna.

Harapan kami adalah agar setiap ahli, khususnya yang baru menyertai, dapat merasai semangat kekeluargaan dalam berpersatuan dengan mengutamankan sikap saling hormat-menghormati antara satu sama lain, serta bersedia untuk menimba ilmu secara aktif. Semoga kita terus berkembang sebagai komuniti yang bukan sahaja mencintai ilmu bintang, tetapi juga menyumbang kepada pembangunan negara melalui pendidikan, penyelidikan, dan pemerkasaan generasi muda.

Saya percaya bahawa ahli-ahli baru yang berada di sini adalah generasi yang bukan sahaja mencintai ilmu astronomi, tetapi juga bersedia untuk berbakti, menyumbang dan memimpin PABD dengan nilai murni.

Akhir kata, terimalah dua rangkap pantun dari saya:

Bintang bersinar di langit tinggi,
Menjadi petunjuk pelayar zaman,
Ilmu falak bukan sekadar hobi,
Tapi jambatan ilmu menuju keimanan.

Bintang tinggi tak tercapai,
Namun sinarnya jadi pedoman,
Teruskan usaha, jangan lalai,
Demi ilmu dan masa hadapan.

Sekian, wabillahi taufiq walhidayah, wassalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.