KUCHING: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg requested pilgrims from Sarawak departing to the Holy Land for their Hajj to pray for a peaceful and harmonious Malaysia, especially Sarawak.
“Perform the Hajj as much as you can. Do not forget to pray for our country and that the Almighty will always bless our country to be peaceful and successful.
“Pray that Sarawak continues to be harmonious so that we can send more pilgrims to the Holy Land,” he said in his speech before bidding a group of pilgrims farewell at Raia Hotel and Convention Centre here today.
Abang Johari said he was grateful that a total of 344 Sarawakians were selected by Tabung Haji to perform the Hajj this year, and expressed hope for the number from Sarawak to increase in the coming years given that the COVID-19 situation was improving for the better globally.
“Hopefully, the chosen ones will be able to perform their Hajj successfully and peacefully. I wish and pray for their safe departure and return,” he said.
At the same time, Abang Johari also advised pilgrims to take care of their health, especially in facing the hot weather that was expected to reach 50 degrees Celsius.
He said the hot Saudi Arabia weather could cause heat stroke if the pilgrims were to be too exposed to the sun and did not stay hydrated by drinking enough water.
“In their enthusiasm to perform worships or visit historical sites, pilgrims must be cautious about not being too exposed to the hot weather for a long time. They must also remember to drink enough water.
“Even though the COVID-19 situation is under control, they must take care of themselves by sticking to safety and health precautionary measures,” he said.
