TH To Study Proposal For Automatic Haj Eligibility For Senior Citizens

SEPANG, Oct 30 (Bernama) -- Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) will study a proposal for individuals aged 60 and above to be automatically eligible to perform the haj under the muassasah package.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar said TH is currently maintaining the ‘first come, first served’ policy in determining the order of haj pilgrims.

“The current policy is that whoever registers first will be given priority. However, I understand the issue concerning age, and God willing, the proposal will be discussed and considered by TH,” he told reporters after attending the 1447H/2026M Haj Pilgrimage Organisers’ Licence handover ceremony here today.

Yesterday, several MPs proposed that senior citizens aged 60 and above be granted automatic approval to perform the haj through the muassasah package without having to make an appeal or pay the full cost of RM33,300.

When asked to comment on the stricter health requirements set by the Saudi Arabian government for the upcoming haj season, Mohd Na’im said the measure aims to safeguard the welfare of pilgrims throughout the performance of the fifth pillar of Islam.

He advised prospective pilgrims who receive offers to perform the haj for the 1447H/2026M season to ensure they are in good health in order to pass the mandatory medical examination.

“So, I think what those intending to perform the haj next year need to do is to start maintaining their health from now, so that when the examination is carried out, they can pass the screening. That is what we hope for. But if they fail, perhaps it is because Allah has determined a different opportunity for them,” he said.

According to TH, senior citizens make up eight per cent of the more than four million individuals registered to perform the haj.

-- BERNAMA