Ailing Malaysian pilgrims to receive help for haj rituals
Shared purpose: Mohd Na'im delivering a sermon to Malaysian haj pilgrims in Mecca.
MECCA: Ailing Malaysian pilgrims can perform essential haj rituals with the help of assigned companions, says Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar.
The Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) said that 38 Lembaga Tabung Haji personnel have been tasked with supporting selected pilgrims under the Program Prihatin Tetamu Ar-Rahman (Peneman) companionship initiative throughout the Masyair phase of haj.
Mohd Na'im explained that the pilgrims, comprising the elderly, those requiring assistance, and those without companions, were chosen for the programme through a series of screenings and interviews conducted by Tabung Haji.
'Thank you to the Peneman officers for sacrificing their time and energy to ensure that all infirm pilgrims are able to complete their haj,' said Mohd Na'im during his visit to the Malaysian pilgrims' tents yesterday.
About 31,600 Malaysians are currently among the two million pilgrims performing the Wukuf at Arafat (the ritual stop at the plains of Mount Arafat), which is considered the most important part of the haj.
During the noon prayers, Mohd Na'im said in his Arafah sermon that the pilgrimage should be conducted with ease, not hardship.
'Religion is not meant to burden, but to guide and uplift the human soul. Let us not complicate the religion through ignorance or harshness. Instead, embrace the gentleness and love of God in every act of worship we perform.
'If we reflect deeply, we witness millions of people from different races, cultures, and languages, gathering in one place, facing one qibla, and submitting to one God,' he said.
Mohd Na'im added that the world is witnessing growing divisions among Muslims, driven by narrow-minded ideologies, self-interest, and a weakening sense of brotherhood.
'As civilised people who cherish peace, I urge all of us to embody the noble values instilled throughout this pilgrimage.
'Fulfil the rights of fellow human beings. Don't be selfish. Show tolerance, mutual assistance, and avoid disputes or arguments, which harm the spirit of haj.
'Maintain cleanliness and avoid waste. Be grateful for every blessing, and practise sharing with others,' he said.
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