Kuala Lumpur: Malaysians planning to perform haj are reminded to comply with procedures set by the Saudi government, as failure to do so could result not only in individual penalties but also impact the nation.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar stated that Saudi Arabia had previously suspended pilgrims from 14 countries due to visa violations. He emphasized the importance of adhering to the rules to prevent repercussions for fellow haj pilgrims and the nation. He warned that repeated infractions could lead to a reduction or suspension of Malaysia's haj quota.

Mohd Na'im highlighted that violations could incur severe consequences for individuals, including fines up to 100,000 Saudi riyals and a five-year entry ban to the kingdom. He noted that Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) has not yet received any official complaints regarding recent deportations of 63 Malaysians from Makkah for lacking valid haj visas.

On a different note, Mohd Na'im addressed reports of alcohol parties held at two five-star hotels in Melaka, stating that such events contravene Islamic law, particularly at establishments with halal certifications. He urged relevant authorities to take action, citing the revocation of Malaysian Halal Certification for the hotels involved by the state Islamic Religious Department (JAIM), following their recent hosting of alcohol parties.