Kuala lumpur: Health concerns have emerged as the leading reason for haj deferment among Malaysian pilgrims this year, overtaking financial issues, which have now dropped to the third position. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), Dr. Zulkifli Hasan, highlighted this shift, noting that only 18% of pilgrims have deferred their haj this year, a significant drop from the previous rate of approximately 50%. This positive change follows improvement initiatives by Lembaga Tabung Haji.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr. Zulkifli emphasized that personal and health considerations are now the primary factors for haj deferment, with financial constraints no longer being the predominant cause. He shared these insights during the Sinar Lestari housing handover session conducted by the Malaysian Islamic Economic Development Foundation (YaPEIM) at Kampung Aman, Kandis.

Dr. Zulkifli elaborated that health screenings are a mandatory requirement to ensure pilgrims can perform their worship safely and smoothly during their stay in the Holy Land. The government remains committed to utilizing Malaysia's full haj quota, with appeals open until Ramadan to fill any vacancies.

For those who defer their haj, the available quota will be allocated to the next most eligible candidates, in line with existing rules and guidelines. Dr. Zulkifli assured that Lembaga Tabung Haji would provide further announcements regarding haj offers and appeals as necessary.

Previously, it was reported that Malaysia is still awaiting a response on its request for an additional haj quota for 2026, following the Saudi government's decision to maintain the current quota at 31,600 pilgrims.