Remarkable Rise In Haj Pilgrims
By Azlan Othman

Bandar Seri Begawan - A rush of enthusiastic pilgrims have added to the high number off for Haj this year.

Observing this remarkable numbers of pilgrims Pg Hj Mustapa Pg Hj Aliuddin the Assistant Director of Haj Affairs said this year's increase was attributed to the end of the year school holidays.

Pg Hj Mustapa told the Weekend that the first batch of Haj flights was scheduled to depart on December 7, 2006 with over 200 passengers on per flight.

Altogether, six flights have been organised this year.

He also said the rise in number of pilgrims could be attributed to the end of term school holidays and students too may be joining their parents to perform the holy rituals.

"The deadline for package payment was Monday (Oct 9, 2006). It started on September 26 with Haj packages as low as $6,900 to over $8,000 depending on the facilities offered by nine Haj package handler companies."

The nine companies comprise Darussalam Holdings, Humaira Travel Centre, Titian Travel and Tours, H.T.H Travel Agency, PGGMB Travel Agencies, Antara Travel & Tours, Travel Trade Agencies, JB Travel & Insurance Agencies and Brunei Travel Services

However he added that there was nothing new this year in terms of regulations.

"What has been announced last year and implemented this year is that Haj handling companies should form agreement on accommodation with the Saudi- government. It must be submitted prior to the issuance of Haj visas. The place of accommodation must be an authorised one.

"Also mentioned last year was the need for Haj officials to follow pre-arranged stone throwing ritual schedule in Mina to avoid a recurrence of a stampede which killed hundreds of pilgrims last year.

"This is especially so on the Muslim calendar of 12' Zulhijjah where it gets chaotic with thousands of pilgrims rushing to go backhome after performing the ritual. The authorities have called not to bring pilgrims on wheelchairs and children as well as belongings along for the three-day stone throwing ritual scheduled to begin on 12'-Zulhijjah. Those on wheel chairs will be allowed to have representative do it for them."

Pg. Hj Mustapa also revealed that all domestic management details have been completed such as passports and courses. Meanwhile a practical course will commence on November 12, 2006 at the Indoor Stadium in Berakas.

On behalf of the Haj Affairs Department, he thanked the Royal Brunei Airlines, Department of Civil Aviation, Police Force, Immigration Department for their support and assistance all these years on matters relating to Haj to make the pilgrimage a success. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

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