MAKKAH, May 25 — A total of 31,600 Malaysian Haj pilgrims, among the 1.5 million Muslims from around the world performing the pilgrimage this year, began moving to Arafah in stages from 7.30am today to prepare for the wukuf ritual tomorrow.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan said the movement of pilgrims was proceeding smoothly and was expected to be completed by today.
“Alhamdulillah, the time has come for a historic moment as Malaysian Haj pilgrims, the dhuyufurrahman, begin their journey for the masyair.
“We started at 7.30am, and Insya Allah, everything will be completed today. The pilgrims will begin their wukuf tomorrow,” he told reporters after witnessing the departure of pilgrims to Arafah today.
He said 25 buses were allocated for each maktab (accommodation) to transport pilgrims from seven hotels in three stages to Arafah, located about 20 kilometres from Makkah.
According to him, the movement of Malaysian pilgrims to Arafah will be carried out in three main phases using shuttle bus services.
“The movement of pilgrims for each maktab will begin with the first trip at 7.30am,” he said.
Zulkifli also advised pilgrims to take care of their health and avoid outdoor activities during periods of extreme heat, especially in the afternoon.
“We advise them to remain focused. The weather is very hot, so avoid going outside during the afternoon. We do not want anyone’s health to be affected.
“We want to ensure pilgrims can focus on their worship and follow all guidance provided by the maktab management,” he said.
As announced by the Saudi Arabian government, the 9th of Zulhijjah, which marks the day of wukuf, would fall on Tuesday (May 26), while Wednesday would be observed as the first day of Aidiladha in the kingdom.
