Saudi Arabia will prioritise safety and health when reviewing Malaysia’s request for additional haj pilgrims, with Malaysia likely first in line for any quota increase.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Saudi Arabian government prioritises safety and health considerations when approving additional haj quotas, according to Malaysia’s religious affairs minister.
Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar said Saudi Arabia’s Haj and Umrah Minister Dr Tawfiq Fawzan Al-Rabiah conveyed this position during recent official discussions about haj management.
“I conveyed our request for an increased quota for Malaysia,” Mohd Na’im told reporters after launching a religious guidance class for the hearing-impaired.
“The Saudi government stated that safety and health factors would be reviewed first, as they do not want overcrowding.”
He noted that haj and umrah periods falling during summer months increase the risk of fatalities among pilgrims.
Mohd Na’im added that Malaysia would receive priority for any additional quota due to its efficient haj management and Malaysian pilgrims’ high discipline levels.
The minister emphasised that Saudi authorities remain focused on preventing overcrowding and ensuring pilgrim welfare during the annual pilgrimage.
Malaysia’s request for more haj slots reflects growing demand among Malaysian Muslims wanting to perform the religious obligation.
The Saudi government’s careful approach aims to balance religious access with safety protocols during the pilgrimage season. – Bernama
