TH SUPPORTS SAUDI’S STRICT HAJ VISA RULES

From Nurliyana Farhah Ruslan

MAKKAH, May 12 (Bernama) -- Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) has welcomed the proactive steps taken by the Saudi Arabian government in enforcing strict regulations for the 1445H/2025M haj season, including a firm ban on individuals attempting to perform the pilgrimage without a valid haj visa.

Malaysian Haj Delegation head Mohd Hisham Harun said the measures are crucial in ensuring the smooth running of the haj operation and safeguarding the safety of pilgrims from around the world.

“The Council of Senior Scholars has also issued a fatwa stating that only those with valid permits are allowed to perform the pilgrimage, making it a mandatory requirement for all pilgrims.

“Individuals attempting to perform haj without valid visa face a penalty of up to SR20,000, while agents involved in bringing pilgrims illegally could be fined up to SR100,000,” he said during TH’s weekly press conference at its headquarters here today.

Mohd Hisham added that the implementation of tight controls at checkpoints leading to the Grand Mosque sends a clear message that the Saudi government will not compromise with anyone who violates the set regulations.

“Any vehicles used to transport pilgrims without a valid permit to Makkah or Madinah will be subject to enforcement action, including fines,” he added.

In this regard, TH urged Malaysians not to be easily influenced by individuals, agents or organisations offering opportunities to perform the pilgrimage using visas other than the official haj visa.

He said this includes promotions or invitations spread via social media, phone calls or other platforms promising easy access to the Holy Land without complying with the visa requirements.

Mohd Hisham said the strict measures enforced by the Saudi government have proven effective, as the pilgrim movement in and out of the Masjidil Haram area is now more organised and less congested than in previous haj seasons.

“This has created a peaceful and more orderly environment for pilgrims to perform the ibadah. In fact, many Malaysian pilgrims have responded positively, saying it greatly facilitates their haj experience,” he said.

-- BERNAMA