Makkah: Malaysian pilgrims are advised to plan their purchases and arrange to post items home early while in the Holy Land to ensure a smoother worship experience, especially in preparation for Wukuf Day, and to provide greater comfort during their return journey home. Pilgrims Fund Board (TH) External Services Manager Mohamad Zamry Mohd Noor highlighted that in previous Haj seasons, many pilgrims tend to buy souvenirs and gifts at the last minute, a period that should be fully devoted to acts of worship, particularly during the Masyair phase.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamad Zamry advised pilgrims to immediately send purchased items to the mailing counter provided in the accommodation lobby, avoiding carrying them to their rooms. This measure prevents room congestion and ensures greater comfort, reducing fatigue when returning home. He emphasized the physical toll of carrying heavy items, likening it to lifting a sack of rice, which can be exhausting during the journey from accommodation to the airport and onto the aircraft.
As of May 18, more than 85,000 kg of pilgrims' belongings had been posted back to Malaysia since April 29, with costs nearing 1.5 million Saudi Riyals. Pilgrims can also send copies of the Quran through the postal service, ensuring each copy is wrapped and affixed with a special sticker, handled separately for safety and preservation.
The agreement between Tabung Haji and the shipping company includes a takaful guarantee, assuring safe delivery to Malaysia. In case of loss, the shipping company is responsible for compensation, with an option for additional insurance for items worth more than RM1,000.
Mohamad Zamry also cautioned against posting Zamzam water, classified as prohibited by the Saudi Arabian government. Previous attempts to send Zamzam water resulted in goods being detained or not reaching Malaysia.
For the current haj season, TH has approved five logistics companies, including their subsidiaries, to provide postal services for Malaysian pilgrims. These include TH Travel and Services Sdn Bhd, Post Malaysia Berhad, FGV Transport Services Sdn Bhd, MASkargo and Logistics Sdn. Bhd, and KTH Logistics Sdn Bhd. In Madinah, the service is available at Saja Al Madinah Hotel, Emaar Royal Hotel, and Anwar Al Madinah Movenpick, while in Makkah, it is available at several locations including Abraj Al Janadriyah and Qasar Janadriyah.