TH: HAJ COST REMAINS AT RM9,980 FOR FIRST-TIMERS
This is despite introduction of GST by Saudi Arabia, says COO
THE cost of performing the haj for first-time pilgrims remains at RM9,980, although the actual cost has increased following the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) by Saudi Arabia on Jan 1.
Tabung Haji (TH) chief operating officer Datuk Adi Azuan Abdul Ghani said as a result of the GST introduction, TH was expected to incur an additional subsidy of RM400 million.
“The five per cent (GST) cost is paid by TH, and pilgrims do not have to pay additional charges,” he said.
Adi was speaking after the 1439/2018 haj course was officiated by Terengganu Menteri Besar Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar here on Friday.
A total of 2,739 pilgrims will undergo a two-day course, to be held in stages at 17 locations nationwide until July 8.
This was in line with efforts to raise pilgrim’s level of knowledge of religious worship before they leave for the holy land.
Adi said no new rules had been issued by the Saudi government to 30,200 Malaysian pilgrims during the pilgrimage this year.
He said the first flight for Malaysian pilgrims this year was scheduled on July 14, involving 483 pilgrims, with the final flight on Aug 15.
“This year, there is no direct flight from Sultan Mahmud Airport to Jeddah.
“Pilgrims from the state will transit at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport before continuing their journey to Jeddah.
“This year, it will be the first time the TH Sepang Complex is used for the pilgrimage operation, replacing the TH Kelana Jaya Complexm which had been in operation since 1982.”
Adi advised pilgrims to maintain their health, drink enough water and bring medicines.
Ahmad said the number of Muslims in the state who had the opportunity to perform this year’s pilgrimage increased compared with last year.
He said the increase in quota would enable the state government to send 101 state staff who received the Excellent Service Awards.