KUCHING: A total of 120 participants from throughout the state were chosen to perform their Hajj pilgrimage to Makkah.
This will be the seventh series of such programme, known as the ‘Program Khas Haji Perdana Menteri’ where the participants comprise Imams, Village Security and Development Committee (JKKK) Chairmen from all over the nation.
According to the Chief Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg, the state’s 90 participants were chosen from different state constituencies while 30 more were chosen through collaboration with the Majlis Islam Sarawak (Sarawak Islamic Council).
The group will attend a course prior to flying off for the pilgrimage and would be led by Ustaz Muhamed Imran Narawi.
“Congratulations to those who have been chosen to be part of the programme. I believe those who are chosen have already been chosen by the Almighty to be his guests in Makkah this year. The Prime Minister and I are merely channels to give you all the invitation.
“We hope that once you all are there everyone will perform their Hajj whilst also taking care of their health, discipline and also the country’s image.
“I have been made aware of the conditions in Makkah. Please be cautious when all of you are proceeding from one location to another and always heed the advice of your group leader.
“The weather is also a bit hot so always keep yourselves hydrated. Bring along empty bottles as it can be refilled at the Zam Zam well,” said Johari in his brief speech prior to the handing over of letters of pilgrimage to the recipients held at Wisma Bapa Malaysia, here yesterday.
Johari also told them that the journey will be planned out by Tabung Haji and that the conditions in Madinah are normal.
