RE-EVALUATION OF THE METHOD USED IN DETERMINING THE PRAYER TIME ZONE IN PAHANG

Abstract

The westernmost point method is used to determine the prayer time zone in Pahang. Currently, there are 6 prayer time zones in Pahang and each of these zones is represented by a single reference point which is located at the west side of the zone. The Prayer time for every zone is calculated based on the selected reference point. Therefore, the western area and the eastern area of each zones are considered to share the same prayer time. The difference of the actual prayer time between the eastern side and the western side of any zone should not exceed two minutes as to follow JAKIM guidelines. Nevertheless, the current designated zones do not meet that criteria. The width of each prayer time zone in Pahang also fails to meet the requirement that is suggested by experts to avoid the exceeding two minutes difference. As a result, the coastal areas of Rompin and Kuantan during a certain prayer time, is four minutes earlier than the reference station situated in Felda Chempaka. This paper aims to study the issues regarding to the practice of westernmost point method in Pahang. This study uses a qualitative approach and data collection method is done through content analysis. Databases are also used to find information relevant to the study. The result of the study found that the method used in Pahang to determine the prayer time zone should be re-evaluated to solve the issues.