Jeddah: The use of the Nusuk card as a 'worship passport' is a key focus of this year's haj season, as the Saudi Arabian government intensifies enforcement of existing regulations to ensure the smooth management of millions of pilgrims.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Nusuk card, which functions as both identification and an official permit, is now mandatory for entry into holy areas, including the Grand Mosque, and is also required at multiple checkpoints under strict monitoring by authorities.

Malaysia's consul-general in Jeddah, Tengku Mohd Dzaraif Raja Abdul Kadir, said the tighter enforcement is not new, but rather a continuation of existing regulations now implemented more rigorously. 'As in previous years, improvements have been made to regulations. However, enforcement is stricter this time, including the use of the Nusuk card and application as approval for entry into Makkah and Masjidil Haram,' he said.

He added that inspections are conducted comprehensively, including card scanning at checkpoints as well as checks at hotels and accommodation premises, to ensure that only pilgrims with valid permits are allowed to remain in the Holy Land. The measure is crucial in controlling the number of pilgrims, which could exceed two million if left unchecked, potentially affecting safety and overall comfort.

'This is the responsibility of the Saudi Arabian government as the custodian of the two holy mosques to ensure that haj management is carried out efficiently,' he said. At the same time, the Pilgrim Fund Board (TH) continues to play a vital role in ensuring Malaysian pilgrims are kept informed of the latest regulations through continuous briefings.

A Bernama check saw that conditions in Makkah are now more orderly following strict control of pilgrims without permits, reflecting the authorities' emphasis on safety and efficient management, while reducing congestion and enabling pilgrims to focus fully on their acts of worship.