Kuala lumpur: The government is set to hold discussions with Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) today to address the escalating costs of flights and the safety of Malaysian haj pilgrims this year amidst the conflict in West Asia. The talks are spearheaded by the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), Dr Zulkifli Hasan, and will include a special committee formed by TH to evaluate all aspects, including costs, pricing, and safety.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Zulkifli Hasan emphasized that the special committee had already been established to look into these matters. He stated, “Yesterday, I mentioned that Tabung Haji had already set up a special committee to investigate this matter. Today, I will meet with them. Insya-Allah, Tabung Haji has done the necessary calculations, and we will ensure the best for our haj pilgrims.” His remarks came after launching the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council’s (MAIWP) Rahmah MADANI Ramadan 2026/1447H shopping programme for Raya clothes and essentials.

The issue will also be referred to the Cabinet special committee to secure the best possible outcome for Malaysian pilgrims. Zulkifli reassured that the Malaysian haj quota remains unchanged, as agreed upon by the Malaysian and Saudi Arabian governments. He encouraged the public to stay informed through updates from Tabung Haji and the government.

On a related note, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof revealed on Saturday that TH is in negotiations with airlines to ensure that flight ticket costs for Malaysian haj pilgrims remain unaffected by the global fuel price fluctuations stemming from geopolitical tensions in West Asia.