MINA: One of the biggest challenges of Haj, besides adhering to the requirements and conditions of its related rituals, is how the pilgrimage tests the pilgrims' emotions.
The hot weather, cramped space and limited amenities demand that pilgrims have a great deal of patience and consideration for others, deputy minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki said.
"We had informed the pilgrims earlier in the courses they attended, and gave them clear indication, that the challenge of the Haj is in Mina and Arafah," he said.
Speaking to the Malaysian media after visiting Tabung Haji’s Syisyah Hospital here on Saturday, he said the government had tried to fulfil demand for more Malaysian Muslims to do the Haj.
"Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak himself requested to Saudi ruler King Salman, and managed to get an increase in the number of pilgrims.
"But they (pilgrims) must understand that the borders of Mina and Arafah have been set since the Prophet’s time and cannot be changed," Asyraf said.
The number of Malaysian pilgrims in the Holy Land for Haj this year is 42,200 according to the latest headcount, compared to the 30,200 earlier reported.
He said despite the increase, the area and number of tents remained the same based on the earlier allocation.
"Naturally there will be uncomfortable conditions, and for our pilgrims, this is the highest test of their patience," Asyraf added.
He said there have been some cases of pilgrims arguing over sleeping space and personal areas in their tents.
"Before coming here, Tabung Haji had repeatedly explained and shared photos of the reality they would face. If everyone sleeps on their side, for example, everybody would have the same space," Asyraf said.
He also reminded pilgrims to always follow instructions and schedules set by TH and the Saudi authorities.
"There are a number of pilgrims who, on their own, want to cast pebbles at the Jamrat Complex outside the time set for Malaysian pilgrims. As a result, they get lost and can't find their way back," Asyraf said.
Meanwhile, he said the number of deaths has increased to 24 as at Saturday, from 14 before Wukuf at Arafah and Mina.
So far this Haj season, 841 pilgrims were warded at TH hospitals and clinics, while 121 were sent to Saudi hospitals for medical treatment.
"We pray that those still admitted and are in critical condition will recover soon. The Malaysian government expresses its highest appreciation to the Saudi government for providing medical services to the pilgrims for free," Asyraf added.
He also praised the TH officials for their tireless dedication in serving the pilgrims throughout the pilgrimage, including when faced with short tempers and little patience.
