MECCA – The Governor of Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Haji Wan Junaidi bin Tuanku Jaafar, together with his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah binti Mohd Sanusi, attended a gathering with 300 Sarawak pilgrims at Hotel Kiswah on Sunday morning.
The event, held at 9.00 am local time, was organised to strengthen ties between the state’s leadership and its citizens undertaking the Hajj.
The ceremony was attended by several distinguished figures, including Malaysia’s Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), YB Senator Dr Zulkifli Hasan.
Also present were the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Lembaga Tabung Haji, Tuan Haji Mustakim Mohamad, and the Head of the Malaysian Hajj Delegation for the 1447H season, Tuan Haji Mohd Hisham Harun.
Their presence underscored the importance of coordination and support for Malaysian pilgrims during this year’s pilgrimage.
The programme began with prayers before continuing with remarks from YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Sarawak’s Minister of Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts, who is accompanying the governor on this journey.
His speech highlighted the unity and shared purpose of Sarawak’s pilgrims as they prepare for the sacred rites of Hajj.
Tun Pehin Sri Wan Junaidi later addressed the assembly, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to perform the pilgrimage alongside fellow Sarawakians.
He emphasised the importance of discipline, adherence to regulations, and mutual assistance among pilgrims while in the Holy Land.
“I hope that all pilgrims are blessed with good health, safety, and a successful Hajj,” he said, reinforcing the values of cooperation and resilience during the demanding rituals.
The event also featured the presentation of donations to Sarawak pilgrims, symbolising encouragement and concern for their welfare.
Such gestures reflect the broader commitment of state leaders to ensure that pilgrims feel supported throughout their spiritual journey.
The gathering concluded with a photo session and a banquet, allowing leaders and pilgrims to share moments of fellowship.
The atmosphere was marked by gratitude and solidarity, as participants prepared for the upcoming stages of the pilgrimage.
The Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is a profound spiritual obligation for Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake it.
Each year, millions travel to Mecca to perform the rites, which include Tawaf around the Kaaba, Sa’i between Safa and Marwah, and standing at Arafat.
For Sarawak, the governor’s participation alongside the state’s pilgrims highlights the enduring connection between leadership and community in fulfilling this sacred duty.
