Kuala lumpur: The early withdrawal facility of up to RM10,000 from the Accumulated Leave Replacement (GCR) for civil servants intending to perform the haj, announced under Budget 2026 with an allocation of RM10 million, is anticipated to assist more prospective pilgrims in enhancing their savings for the pilgrimage.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) group managing director and chief executive officer Mustakim Mohamad stated that the initiative supports the pilgrim fund's ongoing efforts to encourage depositors to increase their savings for a smoother haj experience. TH is hopeful that this governmental support will aid future pilgrims in achieving a mabrur haj.

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) Centre for Development, Social and Environmental Studies chairman Associate Professor Dr. Novel Lyndon described the initiative as a progressive measure. He noted that it provides long-serving civil servants with greater flexibility in using their entitlements to fulfill spiritual obligations. He emphasized the government's commitment to balancing the economic, social, and spiritual needs of the people and the civil service.

Dr. Novel Lyndon also praised the government's decision to raise the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) withdrawal limit for haj expenses from RM3,000 to RM10,000, highlighting that it offers more opportunities for Muslims to perform the fifth pillar of Islam.

Datuk Dr. Adnan Mat, president of the Congress of Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil Services (CUEPACS), remarked that the initiative demonstrates the government's concern for balancing the worldly and spiritual wellbeing of civil servants.

Civil servant Qistina Izfarina Ahmad Fahmi, 32, expressed her approval of the move, noting that it enables employees to perform the haj at a younger age while they are still healthy and able-bodied. She added that the initiative also alleviates the financial burden on civil servants.