SEREMBAN (April 28): Tabung Haji (TH) bore over RM350 million in direct and indirect financial assistance costs for this year's haj operations, its haj management general manager Mohamed Heikal Mohamed Yusuff revealed on Sunday.  

Tthese costs involved flights, accommodation, meals, transportation, various payments to third parties in the holy land, as well as the organisation of courses, medications, health services, and domestic haj logistics at eight departure stations, he said.

"As in previous years, TH continues to provide targeted haj financial assistance to the B40 and M40 groups, to alleviate their financial burden.

"Despite increasing costs each year, TH’s services remain comprehensive and of high standard to ensure the welfare, comfort and safety of Malaysian haj pilgrims," Mohamed Heikal said.

He was speaking at the closing ceremony of the first state-level haj course in Negeri Sembilan, attended by 1,130 prospective hajj pilgrims, officiated by Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun here on Sunday.

Mohamed Heikal stated that the course serves as a final review before the pilgrims depart for the Holy Land (Mekkah), preparing them to face any eventuality, including discomfort and scarcity during the peak of the haj season.

He advised pilgrims to always be grateful, and to perform the haj rituals properly as it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and to refrain from marring the experience in any way.

He also hoped that they would prepare themselves mentally and physically, with a clear understanding of the haj rituals they are about to undertake.

"It's also important not to criticise any shortcomings in the management in the Holy Land, as it serves no purpose. Additionally, they should support each other there, considering there are individuals of varying ages and physical abilities within the group," he emphasised.

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