Malaysians without permits advised not to attempt haj

New Straits Times

2 days ago

MAKKAH: With just days to go before wukuf, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar, has advised Malaysians without authorisation from Saudi authorities not to risk performing the pilgrimage illegally.
Apart from the risk of facing stern legal action, he said there were also serious concerns over pilgrims' health if they attempt the haj through unauthorised means.
He said this was among the matters raised during a meeting between religious affairs ministers and Saudi Arabia's Minister of Haj and Umrah, Dr Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, earlier today.
"I urge Malaysian pilgrims without permits not to remain in the Holy Land to perform the haj illegally. The Saudi government has clearly stated it will strictly enforce regulations this year to ensure the safety of pilgrims worldwide.
"That's why we're seeing less congestion this year compared to previous years. We hope with these efforts, there will be no casualties, or at least a significant reduction compared to last year," he said.
He was speaking after attending the Grand Hajj Symposium here today.
Na'im also shared the latest update revealed during the symposium: pilgrims will no longer be allowed to walk on foot from Makkah to Arafah. Instead, they must travel via transportation provided by the authorities.
He said the Saudi government would be enhancing the transport system, taking into account the extreme heat.
"Some pilgrims may feel they're physically capable of walking long distances, but that will not be allowed this year.
"Last year, many suffered heatstroke from walking long distances under the scorching sun, and some even died on the spot.
"This year, Saudi Arabia is placing great emphasis on pilgrim safety," he added.
Touching on his meeting with Dr Tawfiq, Na'im said it was also confirmed that pilgrims will not be allowed to leave their designated areas between 10am and 4pm during the peak period in Arafah.
In addition, visits to popular sites among Malaysian pilgrims, namely Masjid Namirah and Jabal Rahmah, will be restricted during those hours.