MECCA – The Sarawak Governor, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Haji Wan Junaidi bin Tuanku Jaafar, together with his consort, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah binti Mohd Sanusi, successfully performed the Umrah at the Grand Mosque on the evening of 24 May.
Their spiritual journey was marked by solemn prayers, traditional hospitality, and a strong sense of unity among the delegation. The evening began with the governor, Toh Puan, and their entourage joining the congregation for the Isyak prayer.
Following the prayer, the group attended a dinner prepared in an Arabic style, featuring basmati mandy rice served with lamb and other Middle Eastern delicacies. The meal was shared in an atmosphere of gratitude and fellowship, reflecting the cultural traditions of the Holy Land.
After dinner, the delegation proceeded to the Grand Mosque at 9.30 pm local time. Upon arrival, they began their pilgrimage rituals with the Tahiyatul Mosque prayer before performing the Tawaf Umrah around the Kaaba. The Tawaf was followed by the Tawaf prayer, a moment of deep reflection and devotion.
The entourage then continued with the Sa’ie Umrah, walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah, a ritual that commemorates the journey of Hajar in search of water for her son, Prophet Ismail. This act of remembrance is central to the Umrah and Hajj, symbolising perseverance and faith.
Accompanying the Governor and Toh Puan were Sarawak’s Minister of Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, and his wife, Datin Sri Hajah Zuraini binti Abdul Jabbar.
Also present was Malaysia’s Consul General in Jeddah, Tengku Mohd Dzaraif bin Raja Abdul Kadir, together with his wife, Puan Nor Lily binti Mohamed Zaidel. Their presence underscored Malaysia’s strong representation and support for pilgrims abroad.
The completion of the Umrah was marked by a pause for reflection, during which the Governor and Toh Puan spent time gazing at the Kaaba before returning to their accommodation.
For pilgrims performing the Hajj in the tamattu’ manner, the Umrah serves as an essential component of the pilgrimage, undertaken before re-entering ihram during the designated days of Hajj.
The Governor’s participation in the Umrah highlights the spiritual devotion of Sarawak’s leadership and reinforces the state’s connection to the global Muslim community.
His safe and successful performance of the rituals is seen as an inspiration for Sarawakians preparing for their own journeys of faith.
This visit also reflects the balance between governance and spirituality, as leaders continue to uphold religious traditions while fulfilling their responsibilities at home.
The Governor’s pilgrimage is a reminder of the enduring importance of faith in public life and the shared values that unite communities across borders.
