Govt To Ensure Haj Quota Fully Used, Health Cited As Main Reason For Deferment

BACHOK, Jan 2 (Bernama) -- Health factor has been identified as the main reason for haj deferment among Malaysian pilgrims this year, surpassing financial reasons, which now rank third.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), Dr Zulkifli Hasan, said that so far, only 18 per cent have deferred their haj, a significant decline from about 50 per cent previously, following the improvement initiatives implemented by Lembaga Tabung Haji.

“Based on the data received, personal and health factors are the primary reasons for deferments, and financial factor is no longer the dominant cause as before,” he said.

He said this to reporters after the Sinar Lestari housing handover session by the Malaysian Islamic Economic Development Foundation (YaPEIM) at Kampung Aman, Kandis, here today.

Zulkifli said health screening is among the mandatory conditions that must be complied with to ensure a safe and seamless worship throughout the pilgrims’ stay in the Holy Land.

At the same time, Zulkifli said the government would ensure that Malaysia’s haj quota is fully utilised, with appeals open until Ramadan to fill vacancies.

“For pilgrims who defer their haj, the quota will be offered to the next most eligible candidates in accordance with existing rules and guidelines.

“Further announcements regarding haj offers and appeals will be issued by Lembaga Tabung Haji from time to time,” he said.

Previously, the media reported that Malaysia is still awaiting a response regarding the request for an additional haj quota for 2026, following the Saudi government’s decision to maintain the quota at 31,600 pilgrims.

-- BERNAMA