Malaysian Pilgrims Undeterred By Mina Heat In Performing Jamrah Ritual

From Amirul Mohd Sajadi

MAKKAH, May 28 (Bernama) -- The hot weather in Mina today did not stop Malaysian haj pilgrims from carrying out the jamrah stoning ritual, one of the compulsory rites in completing the haj pilgrimage.

With temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, pilgrims were seen moving slowly and cautiously towards the Jamaraat complex while accompanied by Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) personnel, who continuously monitored the situation.

A Bernama survey found that most pilgrims carried umbrellas, water bottles and wet towels to reduce the effects of the hot weather while walking alongside millions of Muslims from around the world.

“The hot weather is indeed challenging, but once we arrive and complete the stoning ritual, it feels worth it,” said Malaysian pilgrim Ahmad Zulqanain Zainal, 49, when met by Bernama here today.

Another pilgrim, Siti Mariam Hassan, 34, said although the weather was hot and the journey quite far, she was still grateful to be able to perform the ritual calmly.

“This is a very meaningful experience. Even though we are tired, our hearts feel strong,” she said.

Also sharing his experience, Abdul Rahman Ismail, 52, said the atmosphere in Mina, crowded with millions of pilgrims, made the jamrah ritual a deeply humbling experience.

“In this heat and congestion, we truly learn the meaning of patience,” he said.

Despite fatigue and the long journey from the accommodation tents in Mina, most pilgrims remained calm and steadfast in completing the stoning ritual, which symbolises rejecting Satan’s temptations and obeying Allah’s commands.

TH personnel also advised pilgrims to take care of their health, avoid walking too quickly and seek immediate treatment if they experienced exhaustion due to the hot weather.

-- BERNAMA