MECCA: Tight security enforced by the Saudi Arabian authorities has made performing haj this year easier, safer and more orderly, says Tabung Haji.
Haj department head Hisham Harun said greater enforcement by Saudi authorities along with the regulation permitting only those with valid visas to perform haj, has resulted in a much more orderly crowd at the holy site.
He said that Tabung Haji views the strict enforcement by Saudi authorities positively.
“It helps maintain order around the Holy Mosque. We are observing a calmer, more organised situation compared to previous years, with smoother entry and exit for pilgrims and less crowding.
“The strict controls have also improved the quality of haj management quality – from logistics and transport around Mecca to traffic flow. There is noticeably less congestion compared to previous years,” said Hisham.
The Saudi government has tightened regulations to ban individuals without valid visas from performing haj.
Hisham advised Malaysians not to be influenced by those offering services without requiring a proper permit.
“Saudi authorities will not allow entry into the Haram Mosque for those without a valid haj visa.
“There are numerous checkpoints around Mecca where individuals are checked for permits. We advise Malaysian pilgrims to always wear their Nusuk card to allow officials to check and verify their visa authenticity.”
On Malaysian pilgrims, he said 39 out of 47 flight groups have departed from Malaysia.
“So far, we have 11,396 pilgrims in the Holy Land – 5,252 in Madinah and 6,143 in Mecca.”
He also urged pilgrims to take care of their health as temperatures have risen above 40°C and could exceed 50°C.
“Many of our pilgrims are experiencing skin conditions such as dryness and itching.
“We advise them to use moisturisers, especially those with diabetes, because scratching can lead to wounds.
“We also encourage pilgrims to drink plenty of water and avoid bathing too frequently to prevent dry skin,” said Hisham.
