Madinah: The movement of the first group of 284 Malaysian pilgrims for the 1446H/2025 haj season into Makkah will begin in stages, starting May 4. Tabung Haji (TH) Zone Two manager in Madinah, Shahidan Ishak, emphasized the importance of a smooth and orderly transition for the pilgrims as they prepare for their journey.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, to facilitate this process, pilgrims will attend a preparatory briefing session conducted by TH staff a day before they depart for Makkah. Shahidan highlighted that these sessions are crucial for ensuring that pilgrims fully understand and comply with all necessary requirements. This includes donning the ihram and making other essential preparations.

Shahidan further explained that the briefing will cover significant information such as the time and location for making the ihram intention (niat). He noted, "For instance, pilgrims will only make their ihram intention upon reaching the Miqat at Bir Ali before continuing their journey to Makkah for the umrah (minor haj) rituals."

To offer additional support, TH has established guidance and visitation counters at its Madinah Operations Office. These counters provide information and assistance related to haj and umrah rituals, ensuring that pilgrims are well-equipped for their spiritual journey.

Moreover, Shahidan mentioned that a team of 13 staff members, including eight general haj officers and five religious guides from the Pembimbing Ibadat Haji Tanah Suci (PIHTAS) team, have been deployed in Zone Two in Madinah. This team is tasked with ensuring smooth operations and effective management of pilgrims during this haj season.

Pilgrims are also reminded of the importance of wearing identification tags and wristbands at all times. This measure is intended to facilitate tracking and ensure the safety of pilgrims throughout their stay in the Holy Land. Shahidan noted, "To keep pilgrims well-informed, updates and important announcements will be shared continuously through official WhatsApp groups and bulletin boards placed around the hotel premises."

Various facilities have been provided for pilgrims in Zone Two, including customer service counters, Bank Islam service points, baggage handling assistance, and prepaid SIM card registration counters. Accommodation for this year's haj season has been arranged across three buildings in Madinah. Pilgrims in Zone One are housed at the Anwar Al Madinah Movenpick and Saja Al Madinah hotels, while those in Zone Two are accommodated at the Emaar Royal Hotel Madinah.

In total, 632 Tabung Haji personnel have been deployed this season, with 122 stationed in Madinah. Their presence is crucial to ensure that all services and rituals for the Duyufurrahman (guests of the Most Merciful) are conducted smoothly and efficiently.