MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA – Head of the Astronomy Observatory at Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara (UMSU) Arwin Juli believes the launch of the Unified Global Hijri Calendar (UGHC) by Muhammadiyah became an important milestone in the effort to unify the Islamic world’s calendar system.
Speaking during the UGHC launch at Universitas ‘Aisyiyah Yogyakarta (Unisa) on Wednesday, 25 June, Arwin said the UGHC has the potential to address issues in Islamic timekeeping, which has remained inconsistent and uncoordinated across countries.
“With this launch, we hope Muslims in Indonesia and around the world will gradually come to accept the UGHC. We understand there will be challenges and discussions along the way, but we hope it will grow naturally into something widely adopted,” said Arwin.
Arwin added that Muhammadiyah is making history with this effort, especially by introducing the concept of one unified date for all Muslims across the globe, “one day, one date”, to strengthen a sense of togetherness among the ummah.
Arwin also highlighted the significance of the launch event, which was attended by ambassadors from several Middle Eastern countries and representatives from Islamic organizations. Their presence, he said, shows international recognition of Muhammadiyah initiative.
“Hopefully, the UGHC will become a real option and solution, and eventually shape how the Muslim world thinks about time and unity. May Muhammadiyah’s sincere efforts and ijtihad receive Allah’s blessings,” expressed Arwin.
