MECCA – The Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Haji Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, accompanied by his consort Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi and their entourage, successfully performed the Tawaf Wada on Saturday morning, 30 May 2026.
The ritual, which began at 8.00 am local time and concluded an hour later, represents the final act of worship for pilgrims before leaving Mecca.
Following the circumambulation, the delegation also performed the Sunnah prayer, reinforcing the spiritual significance of the farewell rite.
Tawaf Wada, also known as the Farewell Tawaf, is a mandatory ritual for pilgrims departing Mecca after completing Hajj.
It involves circling the Kaaba seven times in an anti-clockwise direction, symbolising gratitude, humility, and closure to the sacred journey.
Islamic scholars emphasise that this rite is obligatory for pilgrims travelling from outside Mecca, with exemptions only for residents and women experiencing menstruation.
Saudi authorities had earlier intensified crowd management measures at the Grand Mosque to accommodate the large number of pilgrims performing Tawaf Wada.
More than 1.7 million worshippers participated in this year’s Hajj, with operational teams deployed to ensure safety and smooth movement during peak hours.
Tun Pehin Sri Wan Junaidi, who was appointed as the eighth Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak in January 2024, has long been recognised for his contributions to public service and leadership.
His presence in Mecca underscores the importance of faith in governance and highlights Sarawak’s strong ties with the global Muslim community.
The governor and his entourage are scheduled to depart for Madinah later in the evening. Their itinerary includes visits to several historical sites and the Prophet’s Mosque, a destination of immense spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide.
The pilgrimage journey of Sarawak’s head of state has been closely followed by the Sarawak community, many of whom view his participation as a source of inspiration.
His safe arrival in Mecca earlier this month was warmly welcomed by Sarawakians, reflecting unity and shared devotion.
As the governor continues his pilgrimage in Madinah, his journey serves as a reminder of the balance between leadership responsibilities and spiritual obligations, a value deeply embedded in Sarawak’s cultural and religious fabric.
