PORT DICKSON, Sept 24 (Bernama) -- The project to build an observatory and a three-star hotel at the Baitul Hilal Complex in Teluk Kemang here, is now 35 per cent complete.

The project, on a 1.21 hectare (three acre)site, is a joint venture between the Department of Wakaf, Zakat and Hajj (JAWHAR) and the Negri Sembilan Islamic Religious Affairs Council (MAINS), the owner of the land.

Acting MAINS secretary, Kamal Amran Kamarudin said, the projects began in December 2009 and is expected to be complete by November next year.

"The overall project cost is RM30 million with RM18 million funded by JAWHAR and the rest by the Council," he told Bernama during a site visit to both projects here today.

Commenting on the two-storey observatory project, he said among the facilities within it are, a hall to accommodate 200 people, a surau, lecture room, meeting room and exhibition area.

"The observatory will centralise all activities pertaining to the sighting of the moon,firmanent and planets to drive progress in the knowledge of astronomy.

"The observatory will also be an important reference and research centre.

"The implementation of this project is also an effort to enhance awareness in astronomy among students and the general public.

"It will be equipped with 24-inch telescope, which is among the largest of its kind in Malaysia, for viewing the stars and planets as such," he said.

Kamal Amran said the management of the observatory will be done jointly with University Malaya (UM).

When complete, he said, UM will place its officers and research staff there to assist in the management.

He said a unique feature of the observatory is the sundial to be placed within its compound. The sundial shows time based on the movement of the sun.

"At the same time, the observatory will also have a gallery for placing historical items related to astromony in Islam," he added.

Meanwhile, the four-storey hotel with 84 rooms and three apartments, will also have facilities such as a restaurant, surau and recreational area.

"This is MAINS' first investment venture into the hotel sector. An additional feature of the hotel is that it is packaged together with the observatory.

"Those staying at the hotel will also an involvement in the observatory programme," Kamal Amran added.

-- BERNAMA