Kuala lumpur: The government is reviewing proposals to improve the selection process for Haj pilgrims by focusing on their financial capability, age, and readiness. Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Marhamah Rosli said this matter is still under consideration, as various aspects, including the cost of performing the Haj and the set quota, need to be evaluated.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Marhamah highlighted during a Parliament session that the factors concerning Haj costs and quotas cannot be overlooked, and several issues need to be taken into account. She assured that Tabung Haji (TH) would provide regular updates on the matter. Her comments came in response to a supplementary question from Jamaludin Yahya (PN-Pasir Salak), who queried whether the government would consider a more targeted selection model for prospective pilgrims. This inquiry was based on data showing that 50 percent of pilgrims deferred their offers last year, with 18 percent doing so this year, primarily due to financial constraints.

Jamaludin suggested enhancing the early registration policy by incorporating indicators of minimum financial capability, age, and readiness to prevent resource wastage when calling on those not yet prepared. This is especially crucial since there are depositors with sufficient savings who are far down the waiting list.

Earlier, Marhamah noted a decrease in the deferral of offers for this season, with only 18 percent of prospective pilgrims deferring compared to 50 percent the previous year. Among those who deferred, reasons included insufficient savings (10 percent), health issues (36 percent), personal matters (37 percent), and other factors (17 percent).

In response to a question from Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun (PH-Port Dickson) about easing access for TH depositors to perform Haj without financial or health concerns, Marhamah shared that over 53 percent of the 9.7 million depositors had savings of less than RM1,300. She emphasized the need for TH to implement structured, systematic, and sustainable strategic measures, including launching long-term savings initiatives for depositors' benefit.

TH is committed to implementing comprehensive improvements to assist depositors in planning their Haj savings effectively and preparing for their financial capability. Additionally, TH is enhancing education for prospective pilgrims by inviting them to attend basic courses two years before their turn to prepare for their health needs.