Kota Kinabalu: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor reminded Sabah pilgrims to strictly follow the instructions of Hajj officers, maintain proper nutrition and avoid overexerting themselves during their stay in the Holy Land.
He said they should immediately seek treatment at Tabung Haji clinics if they fall ill, and remain alert to global developments, including geopolitical tensions in West Asia and the Middle East.
The message was delivered through a speech read by Datuk Ruslan Muharam at the opening of the Perdana Haji 1447H/2026M (West Coast Zone) course, which involved 502 prospective pilgrims from Kota Kinabalu, Beaufort and Kota Belud.
Hajiji also stressed the importance of maintaining Malaysia’s strong reputation among international pilgrims, noting that Malaysian Hajj participants are widely recognised for their discipline, manners, and good conduct.
He reminded pilgrims to remain patient in facing challenges such as large crowds and hot, dusty weather conditions in the Holy Land, while upholding the responsibility of representing Malaysia on the global Islamic stage.
The programme aims to prepare pilgrims mentally, physically, and spiritually through practical manasik training, including tawaf, saie, and stoning rituals.
Meanwhile, Lembaga Tabung Haji announced the continuation of its targeted Hajj Financial Assistance Scheme (HAFIS), allocating RM210 million for 2026 to help reduce the financial burden of Muassasah pilgrims.
Imran Mohammad Khayat said B40 pilgrims will only need to pay RM15,000, covering about 45pc of the actual Hajj cost, while M40 pilgrims will pay RM23,500, or around 71pc.
Since its introduction in 2001, the Hafis initiative has accumulated over RM2.72 billion in assistance.
He also introduced the “Menuju Istito’ah” initiative, which focuses on comprehensive Hajj readiness, including financial capability, health, safety, and eligibility or quota requirements. Pilgrims are encouraged to prepare early through consistent savings, including salary deductions and auto-debit contributions.
Tabung Haji also promotes its online Hajj savings calculator and the “THoriq Ya Hajj” programme, which encourages physical fitness through monitored walking activities for prospective pilgrims.
The programme was held during the Kursus Perdana Haji session in Sabah and attended by Assistant Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry.Datuk Ruslan Muharam.
