Jamil Khir: Cost of haj expected to rise

Muslim pilgrims circumvent the Kaabah, an important ritual to finish the haj at the Masjid al-Haram (Grand Mosque) in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. - EPA

KUALA LUMPUR: The cost of performing the haj is expected to continue rising due to increases in the cost of food, lodging, transport and various other services, says Datuk Seri Jamil Khir Baharom.

The Minister in the Prime Minister's Department said the cost of performing the haj increases every year, and those who made the pilgrimage to this year paid in excess of RM18,890 per person.