A RECENT tweet by prominent lawyer-activist Siti Kasim that returning umrah (mini haj) pilgrims should bear their own quarantine expenses just like everyone returning home from overseas trips has garnered support by netizens – Muslims and non-Muslims alike. 

“Why is the Government footing the bill? They choose to go overseas during a pandemic. They shouldn’t be given special treatment,” noted Siti Kasim in a recent tweet. 

This follows a recent statement by Special Functions Minister Abdul Latiff Ahmad that an umrah returnee under surveillance (PUS) and who tested negative for COVID-19 by the Health Ministry could be placed under quarantine in a hotel or public training centre depending on availability of rooms on the day of arrival. 

“The quarantine cost will be borne by the government, including meals and airport transfer,” he said, noting that the statement was issued as the Government is aware that many umrah pilgrims are worried about the additional cost of undergoing quarantine. 

Siti Kasim’s view was seconded by Abd Rahman aGaffoor who said the Government should instead channelled such expenses for higher priorities such as helping flood victims, the unemployed and the hardcore poor. 

“The Government must know where (is) crucial, not simply dish out taxpayers’ money,” he contended. 

Netizeen ohcee reckoned that returning pilgrims should be responsible of their decision to proceed with their umrah as they are fully aware of the risks of COVID-19. 

“The pandemic has lasted two years … this is unfair to those who chose to stay put in their homes,” he opined. 

Voltron questioned why the Government has to bear the quarantine cost of the umrah returnees. “This is a waste … if they can afford umrah, then they should have the money for quarantine.”  

A more vocal Velaboy pointed out that majority of the umrah pilgrims are not from the middle class but “those who own two to three cars in their porch”. 

Nevertheless, a more neutral Joseph Raj begged to differ as some of the pilgrims could not afford the quarantine cost. “Thus Tabung Haji should bear the cost,” he asserted. 

But Sally Koay was less forgiving, adding a tinge of sarcasm in her feedback. “I would take it that taxpayers money are being used for this purpose. But have they forgotten that taxpayers also comprised of non-Muslims? Would that be halal?” – Jan 6, 2022