TH ALLOCATES RM261 MLN IN TARGETED AID FOR 1446H/2025M HAJ SEASON

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 16 (Bernama) -- Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) has announced an estimated RM261 million in haj financial assistance for first-time Muassasah pilgrims during the 1446H/2025M haj season.

TH group managing director and chief executive officer Syed Hamadah Syed Othman said Muassasah pilgrims from the B40 group would receive RM17,300 in assistance from TH, along with an additional RM1,000 provided by the government.

"The total assistance of RM18,300 covers more than half (55 per cent) of the overall haj cost, bringing the payable amount for B40 pilgrims to RM15,000 each.

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"Prospective pilgrims from the M40 group will receive RM9,800 in financial assistance, or 29 per cent of the overall haj cost, making their payment RM23,500 per person," he told a press conference here today.

He added that Muassasah pilgrims from the T20 group with a monthly individual income of at least RM15,000 would be required to bear the full haj cost of RM33,300 per person.

Syed Hamadah explained that the targeted haj financial assistance aligns with TH's policy of gradually reducing subsidies financed through investment profits, a move implemented since 2022 to ensure financial sustainability.

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"Reducing haj financial assistance is also a fair measure to maintain TH's financial sustainability while minimising the impact on investment returns for depositors. Ensuring a sustainable and competitive rate of return remains one of TH's key responsibilities," he said.

In addition, Syed Hamadah noted that TH has successfully contained cost increases for the 1446H/2025M haj season, and the haj cost is maintained at RM33,300 per Muassasah pilgrim.

To manage costs, he said TH has entered long-term contracts for flights despite the rising fuel prices.

"The cost of accommodation in the Holy Land has also surged due to rapid development in Makkah and Madinah. However, TH has locked in multi-year agreements with hotel operators to ensure stable and controlled rates," he added.

Meanwhile, Syed Hamadah said offer letters for 31,600 prospective pilgrims would be issued in stages starting today, and they are required to ensure sufficient funds and pass their health examinations before responding to the offer.

-- BERNAMA