Lembaga Tabung Haji: Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) has assigned companions to selected 37 ailing Malaysian pilgrims not accompanied by their family members during the Masya'ir phase under its Program Prihatin Tetamu Ar-Rahman (PENEMAN).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar stated that the PENEMAN companionship initiative demonstrates TH's ongoing commitment to protecting the welfare of Malaysian pilgrims, particularly during wukuf, a defining moment of the haj journey at Arafah. He mentioned that a staff member would accompany each physically challenged pilgrim, assisting with physical needs such as using the restroom and mobility, as well as providing spiritual guidance and support.
Mohd Na'im explained that the selected pilgrims are elderly individuals as well as those facing difficulties in managing themselves and do not have family members to assist them throughout the pilgrimage. The PENEMAN initiative involves 38 TH personnel, comprising 27 women and 11 men, tasked with providing dedicated care and assistance to each ailing pilgrim throughout the pilgrimage, particularly during their time in Arafah.
He noted a slight decrease in the number of pilgrims participating in the PENEMAN initiative this year, compared to 50 pilgrims during last year's haj season. The dedication, patience, and sincerity of the companions in fulfilling their duty to assist this high-risk group of pilgrims were also praised by Mohd Na'im.
Zaimah Abdul Majid, 60, whose mobility is restricted due to her swollen legs, expressed her appreciation for the TH initiative in providing dedicated assistance for pilgrims in need of extra support. She acknowledged the extensive assistance provided by the young staff members, including help with using the restroom, and expressed her gratitude for being selected for the programme.
The Saudi Arabian government has announced that Wukuf Day falls on Thursday, the 9th day of Zulhijjah (June 5), followed by the celebration of Aidiladha on Friday, June 6.