MECCA: Malaysian pilgrims should be wary of unknown individuals offering various Haj-related assistance at cheap prices, as there is no guarantee the services are authentic.
Datuk Syed Saleh Syed Abdul Rahman, head of Malaysia’s 1438H Haj Delegation, said although the number of cases are small, they happen every year.
“Don’t be influenced by individuals who claim they can do all kinds of things for the pilgrims — accept dam payments, help with tawaf, stoning by proxy, and sacrificing animals.
“There is no way to verify if they actually perform these acts, or whether it is done properly,” he told Malaysian media here recently.
Syed Saleh said Tabung Haji (TH) already offers these services, and pilgrims are assured that they will be performed in accordance to Islamic law.
“In our buildings we have some control, but when our pilgrims are walking to or from the Grand Mosque, some individuals may approach them and maybe they are attracted by the lower prices.
“But are they sure of the authenticity of the services offered? Why go with total strangers when TH already has the same service?” he added.
Syed Saleh said TH has received positive feedback from Haj pilgrims thus far on the accommodation and services at the various maktab and zones in Mecca and Madinah.
“We will continue to give our best and keep improving where we can. So far there have been no major problems faced by Haj pilgrims that we cannot resolve,” he said.
While at their respective maktabs, pilgrims are advised to attend all briefing sessions as these give them an opportunity to revise and apply what they were taught in Malaysia to the actual situation in Mecca.
“They should also meet with the religious teachers (PIHTAS) at their maktab to clarify any worries or doubts about their worship, to ensure everything is in order before the Wukuf, which only happens once,” Syed Saleh said.
He also reminded pilgrims to avoid overexposure to the hot and dry climate, and drink water to prevent dehydration.
“We only have about 16 days to Wukuf, a very important day and the peak of Haj season. Pilgrims must be at their healthiest during that period.
“If they’re unwell, go to the clinic. Take care of their food, medication and energy. Don’t be too obsessed about optional worship (sunat) to the point that they are unable to perform the compulsory (wajib) when in Arafah,” Syed Saleh added.