How do Muslims Determine the New Month of the Year?
Muslims follow a Lunar Calendar consisting of 12 months in a year of either 354 days or 355 days. The Islamic calendar started in 622 AD when Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon Him) migrated from Makkah to Madinah to establish the first Muslim community.
What is the Procedure for Moon Sighting in South Africa?
The MJC established the “Hilaal Forum” that attends monthly meetings of the Crescent Observer’s Society, as well as the monthly moon sighting, usually at Three Anchor Bay and other designated places in Cape Town. Afterwards, our members go to the Azzawia Masjid to report to Shaykh Seraj Hendricks. Formal announcements are made on Radio Voice of the Cape on behalf of the MJC President.
How are Announcements Verified?
The United Ulema Council of South Africa adds the MJC logo and the names of all the member organizations to all announcements, WhatsApp messages etc to verify sighting of the new crescent. An example of the official message is here:
