KUCHING: After a two-year break due to restrictions in view of the COVID-19 pandemic, some 142 individuals became the first group of pilgrims from Sarawak to be able to travel to Mecca for Haj this year.
The pilgrims left for the Holy Land today.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, his wife Puan Sri Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tun Tuanku Bujang and Sarawak Islamic Council president Datuk Misnu Taha were among the dignitaries who bid them a safe trip farewell at Raia Hotel and Convention Centre here.
The first group of pilgrims departed from Kuching International Airport (KIA) via Malaysia Airlines flight at 10.55pm on Thursday to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) enroute to Jeddah with their expected time of arrival at 6.55am Saudi time.
The second group of another 142 pilgrims departed for the Holy Land from KIA at 8.55pm last night.
This year’s Hajj season will see one million international and domestic pilgrims performing the Hajj.
Pilgrims are required to comply with health and safety measures such as wearing of face masks in the Grand Mosque in the holy city of Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina.
