Observe the rules established by the governments of Saudi Arabia and Malaysia, urges Tabung Haji

MECCA: According to a Fatwa issued by the Saudi Arabian government, Malaysians who do not follow the correct procedures to undertake Haj commit a forbidden act.

Shahrin Awaludin, the director of Tabung Haji (TH) Haj Guidance Operations, highlighted that it is crucial to follow the teachings of the Prophet, obey Allah’s directives, and show respect for authoritative figures and laws in all that one does.

The Council of Ulama, a branch of the Saudi government, recently declared that it is wicked and banned to do the Hajj without following the correct protocols.

“For those who are able, Haj is a duty. He said during a press conference held yesterday at TH Headquarters that pilgrims needed to ensure security, health, and compliance with quota rules in addition to having the necessary licences.

Recent reports about 300 potential Haj pilgrims from Malaysia who ended up stuck in Mecca due to using tourist visas to complete the Haj were extensively disseminated on social media.

The Minister in charge of Religious Affairs in the Prime Minister’s Department then gave TH instructions to look into the event.

Shahrin thus pleaded with individuals who wanted to fulfil the fifth pillar of Islam to follow the guidelines established by the governments of Saudi Arabia and Malaysia.

He emphasised that the Haj is a type of worship that cannot be done carelessly; rather, it must be carried out strictly in compliance with Islamic law, with appropriate etiquette and procedures.

“It is insufficient even if we are physically and financially equipped. Since performing the Haj is a divine summons from Allah, we must wait and put our trust in Him.

“InsyaAllah, we will go if we are invited to be His guests. Ignoring these elements can have detrimental effects on our family and possibly our nation if they are not properly considered, the speaker stated.

According to the nation’s Shariah legislation, Muslims planning to do the Haj must get a Haj permit; failing to do so is regarded as a sin, as the Senior Ulama Council of Saudi Arabia recently reaffirmed.

Additionally, the Saudi Arabian government declared that anyone found to have violated any of the Haj guidelines or instructions, including going into seven places without a Haj permit, would be subject to a penalty of SAR10,000 (RM12,585).

The locations include the Haramain Railway station in Rusayfah, the Central Region, Mecca, Masyair, security control centres, isolation centres, and a temporary security control centre.

From June 2 to June 20, anyone discovered in these places without a valid Haj permission would be subject to a penalty, including locals, residents, and tourists. – Bernama