Kuala lumpur: The Haji Lestari Campaign implemented by Malaysia provides a sustainable platform for pilgrims to recycle used ihram clothing, supporting efforts to reduce textile waste after the haj season. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), Dr. Zulkifli Hasan, stated that this initiative, led by Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) in collaboration with Saudi Arabian authorities, is part of a broader effort to instil a culture of environmental care among haj pilgrims.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the campaign offers a comprehensive ecosystem that enables pilgrims to donate used ihram clothing and segregate other waste materials such as paper and plastic for recycling. Dr. Zulkifli emphasized that haj should encompass a dimension of environmental care, highlighting that caring for the environment is a shared responsibility of all humanity and that the pilgrimage can reflect this commitment.

Dr. Zulkifli explained that the initiative allows ihram clothing, which might have been discarded after the haj season, to gain new value through recycling and upcycling. He noted that this effort aligns with Saudi Arabia's initiatives to expand circular economy practices and environmental sustainability, as outlined in Saudi Vision 2030.

Malaysia is recognized as one of the first countries to implement a comprehensive support system for a sustainable haj agenda. The initiative also aims to raise pilgrims' awareness of their responsibility towards environmental care as Muslims. Dr. Zulkifli expressed that Malaysia is a global leader in sustainable haj, aiming to convey the message that environmental care is an integral part of the haj experience to the international community.

He concluded that the effort demonstrates that sustainable practices can be integrated even in the world's largest gatherings, showcasing haj as not only a spiritual journey but also a platform for promoting environmental responsibility.