Defying high prices, Muslim pilgrims head to Mecca for haj
Haj, a once-in-a-lifetime duty for every able-bodied Muslim who can afford it, is a major source of income for the Saudi government from worshippers' lodging, transport, fees and gifts.
Millions head to Mecca for huge haj in Saudi heat
Pilgrims in white robes and sandals pack the ancient city, now dotted with luxury hotels and air-conditioned shopping malls, after flooding in on planes, buses and trains for the annual rites.
Putrajaya stays mum on number of additional haj spots
The results of Malaysia's second appeal for a further quota should have been known in May.
Israel says hoped-for direct haj flights to Saudi Arabia won't happen now
It also plays down any prospects of an imminent US-mediated normalisation of relations with Riyadh.
Rahmah haj packages top choice for 35% of pilgrims
The choice is attributed to price difference between the Rahmah haj packages and the haj fee for muassasah pilgrims.
Prospective B40, M40 haj pilgrims identified through Rahmah cash aid list, says religious affairs minister
Mohd Na'im Mokhtar says the T20 group meanwhile is identified based on individual income of more than RM15,000 per month.
Govt still waiting for Saudi response on haj quota, says minister
This comes less than three weeks before the start of the haj season.
With haj around the corner, still no word on quota increase for Malaysia
The estimated time frame for a decision from Saudi Arabia is also unknown.
Higher education reforms, steps to cover increase in haj costs to be raised at Dewan
Questions will also be asked on government assistance for armed forces personnel without pensions, and the quality and cost of the 5G services offered by telecommunications companies.
Flight ticket cartels behind soaring umrah costs?
Industry players say such activities were detected as far back as five years ago.
Malaysia's RM3 billion pilgrimage 'business' set for further growth despite spiralling costs
The number of umrah pilgrims alone has increased by an estimated 900% over just 25 years.
Saudi Arabia to host pre-pandemic numbers for 2023 haj pilgrimage season
Haj, a once-in-a-lifetime duty for every able-bodied Muslim who can afford it, is a major source of income for the government from worshippers’ lodging, transport, fees and gifts.
