PREPARATIONS NEARLY COMPLETE FOR THIS YEAR'S HAJ PILGRIMAGE

KUALA LUMPUR, April 16 (Bernama) -- Preparations by Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) are nearly complete for this year’s haj pilgrimage, which will involve 31,600 Malaysian pilgrims.

Malaysian haj delegation head Mohd Hisham Harun said all preparations in terms of logistics, including flights, accommodation and service management for the pilgrims, were completed during the last Ramadan to ensure smooth operations for the 1446H/2025 haj season.

“Preparations are now nearly 100 per cent complete, with only visa issuance still in progress. So far, 30 per cent of the visas have been issued by the government of Saudi Arabia.

“The visa process must go through the Ministry of Haj and Umrah of Saudi Arabia as well as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and will be reviewed by the Saudi Embassy in Malaysia,” he told a press conference here today.

Mohd Hisham said he is confident that the visa issuance process will proceed smoothly as all the pilgrims’ information has been fully submitted.

In efforts to ensure smooth operations and enhance pilgrims’ comfort, Mohd Hisham said TH has introduced several improvements this year, including the use of digital technology and upgraded facilities at key locations such as Arafah and Mina.

He said these included an electronic feedback system (e-feedback), which allows pilgrims to provide comments on the services offered upon their arrival in Madinah or Jeddah.

“Previously, feedback was given manually. But with e-feedback, pilgrims can provide their input on haj services directly, and we will collect and improve things in real-time. Our staff will also assist pilgrims who may not be familiar with the technology,” he said.

In addition, Hisham said TH had proposed enhancements to facilities in high-density areas such as Arafah and Mina to the Ministry of Haj and Umrah, including the construction of multi-storey toilets for pilgrims’ convenience, similar to what was implemented last year.

The first flight of Malaysian haj pilgrims to the Holy Land for this season is scheduled for April 29, while the last group will depart on May 30.

-- BERNAMA