Haj pilgrims told to be wary of cheap service offers

MAKKAH: Malaysian pilgrims are advised to be wary of certain individuals who claim to be able to provide various services including making Damm and animal sacrifice ritual payments at cheaper rates.

This year's Haj Malaysian entourage leader, Datuk Syed Saleh Syed Abdul Rahman said pilgrims should not engage individuals who were not recognised by Tabung Haji, and who might provide explanations on the Haj rituals according to rules that were not in line with what had been decided at the Malaysian National-Level Haj Muzakarah (discussion).

He said although the matter was not serious, it still occurred each year, as the individuals concerned also claimed to be able to help in terms of performing the tawaf (circling around the Kaa'bah), stoning of the devil and other rituals.

"We should not be influenced and deceived by such individuals because we do not know the true intentions behind what they do,” he said.

Syed Saleh said if any member of the delegation faced any doubts or needed help, they could meet Tabung Haji (TH) officers for assistance.

"In terms of control within the (accommodation) premises, we can do it, but when the pilgrims are out of the building, during a trip or at the Masjidil Haram (Grand Mosque), there may be individuals who approach our pilgrims and try to persuade them.

"TH is already proving services for Damm (penalties for mistakes made in ihram) and animal sacrifice ritual payments, so why go to these individuals, even though they are wearing robes and turbans.

"Maybe they (pilgrims) feel that the amounts offered are more attractive or lower, but whether they actually do the services for you or otherwise, we do not know," he said.

Syed Saleh said TH also provided Haj assistants to help pilgrims who had difficulty carrying out the rituals.