Efektiiftas Sosialisasi KHGT oleh MTT Muhammadiyah Jawa Timur: Analisis Komparatif Literasi Astronomis Islam

Abstract

Purpose - This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the socialization program of the Unified Global Hijri Calendar (Kalender Hijriah Global Tunggal/KHGT) organized by the Council of Tarjih and Tajdid of the Muhammadiyah Regional Leadership of East Java. The program was designed to improve participants’ understanding of the conceptual, theological, and astronomical foundations of KHGT as preparation for its official implementation.

Design/Methodology/Approach - This community service study employed a quantitative approach using a quasi-experimental pre-test and post-test design. The socialization activities were conducted in three strategic locations, namely the Muhammadiyah Regional Leadership of Madiun (17 November 2024), Kediri (30 November 2024), and Jember (7 December 2024). A total of 64 participants consisting of Muhammadiyah regional leaders and tarjih cadres were involved. Statistical analysis was performed to assess changes in participants’ understanding across ten key indicators covering the historical development of the global Hijri calendar, theological principles, and astronomical criteria.

Findings – The results demonstrate a statistically significant improvement in participants’ understanding after the socialization program in all three locations. The most substantial improvement occurred in participants’ comprehension of the astronomical visibility criteria, particularly the minimum lunar altitude of 5° and elongation of 8°, as well as the theological principle of ittihād al-maṭāli’. These findings indicate that the socialization program effectively transformed participants’ perspectives from a locally oriented Hijri calendar to a unified global calendar framework. The program also strengthened participants’ readiness to support the implementation of KHGT beginning on 1 Muharram 1447 AH.

Originality/Value - This study provides empirical evidence regarding the effectiveness of structured KHGT socialization through a quantitative pre-test and post-test evaluation. It contributes to the literature on Islamic astronomy education and community engagement by demonstrating that systematic educational interventions can significantly improve conceptual understanding and institutional readiness for the implementation of a unified global Hijri calendar.