KUALA LUMPUR – Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) is still financing part of the haj costs for first-time Malaysian pilgrims on a muassasah (voluntary) basis through the haj financial assistance.
According to the agency, during the 2022 haj season, 62% aid totalling RM17,652 was given to each B40 pilgrim, while 55%, amounting to RM15,652, was given to every non-B40 pilgrim to perform the pilgrimage.
“This is done by setting the targeted haj payment at a rate of RM10,980 (38% of haj cost) since 2022 for B40 pilgrims and RM12,980 (45%) for non-B40 pilgrims.
“Meanwhile, muassasah pilgrims who perform the haj for the second time or more will not receive financial assistance and will have to bear the full cost,” TH said in a statement today.
According to the statement, the haj fee for pilgrims is lower than the actual cost of performing the pilgrimage, which is RM28,632 per person.
On the increase in haj costs, TH cited five factors that are beyond its control.
“Contributing factors are the increase in inflation and cost of living in Saudi Arabia, foreign exchange movements, introduction of new charges and taxation, increase in quality of services and facilities, and developments in Makkah and Madinah.
“A total of 64% of haj cost is spent on accommodation and charter flights while another 36% is used for services in Saudi Arabia,” it said. – Bernama, January 13, 2023
