MECCA: Tabung Haji (TH) today held an appreciation ceremony for their Sahabat Maktab, volunteers who assisted TH in managing pilgrims for the 1438H Haj season.
Made up of Haj pilgrims from all 13 maktabs in Mecca, the Sahabat Maktab were an essential component which helped ensure the smooth running of this year's pilgrimage.
They numbered 370 in total, a majority of them responsible for the welfare of pilgrims. Those with medical and religious backgrounds were further specialised as Sahabat Medic and Sahabat Ibadat respectively.
Datuk Syed Saleh Syed Abdul Rahman, head of the 1438H Malaysian haj delegation, thanked the Sahabat Maktab for their hard work and commitment, especially during the Masyair phase.
"There were some who even asked if there was anything more they could do. May Allah multiply His reward to you all for your contribution," he said.
Syed Saleh said the Sahabat Maktab have the unique advantage of being both a part of the TH team and pilgrims themselves.
"You have the perspective of both sides, so we value your feedback on ways to further improve our services," he said.
Syed Saleh said the Sahabat Maktab contributed to TH's efficient Haj management and overall discipline of pilgrims, which had consistently been praised by the Saudi authorities.