Thousands of Muslim pilgrims ignore virus risk to gather in Indonesia


JAKARTA/KUALA LUMPUR (Reuters) - Thousands of Muslim pilgrims from across Asia gathered in Indonesia on Wednesday, despite fears that their meeting could fuel the spread of a coronavirus, just two weeks after a similar event in Malaysia caused more than 500 infections.

Organisers and regional officials said the event in the world's fourth most populous nation had begun, although the regional police chief said he was making a last ditch-effort to persuade organisers to call it off.

5.5 PAYDAY OFFER: 35% OFF Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

RM 9.04/month

Billed as RM 9.04 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.02/month

Billed as RM 96.20 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In World

Iran's Fars News agency reports incident with U.S. warship in Strait of Hormuz
Russian missile attack kills five in Ukraine's Kharkiv region, officials say
Sweden arrests Chinese captain of suspected Russia-linked vessel
Iran's Revolutionary Guards unveil new map of Strait of Hormuz under their control, state media says
Modi's party set to gain big in Indian state elections
Shooting at lake near Oklahoma City injures 10, more feared
Australia begins hearings into Bondi Beach attack and rising antisemitism
1st LD Writethru: South Africa confirms 2 deaths from respiratory infection aboard Atlantic cruise ship
WHO confirms one hantavirus death on Atlantic cruise ship
Trump says US to help free up ships in Strait of Hormuz starting Monday morning

Others Also Read