Another Malaysian pilgrim dies in Holy Land

MECCA: Another Malaysian haj pilgrim died in the Holy Land on Monday (June 10), bringing the death toll to five.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar, announced that Zuraida Mohd Haris, 37, from Ampang, Selangor, died at 8.15pm Monday at the King Abdulaziz Hospital.

“The deceased died due to a brain haemorrhage after receiving treatment for six days.

“Her body was taken to Masjidil Haram for funeral prayers before burial after subuh prayers at 5.07am Tuesday at the Syuhada Al-Haram Cemetery,” he told media personnel at Tabung Haji’s (TH) main office here on Tuesday.

So far, he noted, five Malaysian pilgrims have died from various causes, including aneurysm, heart attack, organ failure, and brain haemorrhage.

Mohd Na’im extended his condolences to families of the deceased, and added that TH will perform the haj on their behalf, with the expenses covered by the Malaysian Haj Pilgrims Welfare Fund.

Currently, 56 Malaysian pilgrims are hospitalised, with 13 in Saudi Arabian hospitals, and 43 at the TH Medical Centre in Mecca.

“Pilgrims admitted to TH Medical Centre and Saudi hospitals suffer from respiratory issues, heart problems, hypertension, psychiatric disorders, and muscle/joint pain.

“Insya-Allah, Tabung Haji will ensure these patients receive proper care for their recovery,” he said.

With just four days until the Day of Arafah (June 15), he urged the pilgrims to prioritise their health and avoid prolonged exposure to the hot temperatures in the Holy Land.

“We expect hot weather, with temperatures ranging from 30 to 45 degrees Celsius. Avoid prolonged exposure and drink plenty of water to prevent heat stroke,” he said, adding that pilgrims should also comply with Saudi government regulations and instructions from Tabung Haji officers.