Malaysia Among Earliest To Distribute Nusuk Cards Before Departure

From Amirul Mohd Sajadi

MAKKAH, April 28 (Bernama) -- Malaysia continues to record a commendable achievement by becoming one of the earliest countries in the world to fully distribute Nusuk cards to pilgrims prior to departure for the 1447H/2026M haj season.

Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) group managing director and chief executive officer Mustakim Mohamad said the achievement is a continuation of last season’s pilot project, which saw Malaysia make history as the first country selected to implement the pre-departure distribution of Nusuk cards.

“Alhamdulillah, Malaysia is once again at the forefront of this initiative, reflecting the strong confidence of the Saudi authorities in the country’s haj management capabilities,” he said in a statement here.

He said the implementation is the result of a tripartite collaboration involving the Saudi Ministry of Haj and Umrah, TH, and Malaysia’s haj operator in the Holy Land, Holiday Inn Bakkah.

Mustakim said the initiative not only facilitates pilgrims’ affairs but also helps ensure a smoother pilgrimage by reducing congestion upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, while allowing for more orderly preparations.

He also reminded all pilgrims to take good care of their Nusuk cards and identification documents, as security measures will be tightened by the Saudi authorities, particularly at entry points to worship areas.

The Nusuk card, which functions as both identification and an official permit, is now mandatory for entry into holy areas, including the Grand Mosque, and is also required at multiple checkpoints under strict monitoring by authorities.

-- BERNAMA