Kuala lumpur: The management of the 2025 haj operations has been recognised as among the best, receiving praise and accolades from the Saudi Arabian government, announced Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) was awarded the prestigious Labaytum Diamond Award by the Saudi Ministry of Haj and Umrah for its outstanding management of this year’s haj operations. This award marks the highest recognition given to TH for its exemplary haj pilgrim management.

“For the 2025 haj season, it is quite special, as we received the Diamond Award – the highest recognition given to TH – reflecting the excellent management of haj operations,” Mohd Na’im stated. He attributed the success to the teamwork demonstrated by everyone involved, from top management to TH staff.

Mohd Na’im shared these insights with reporters after welcoming the arrival of 264 pilgrims at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1. TH chairman Tan Sri Abdul Rashid Hussain and head of the Malaysian Haj Delegation, Mohd Hisham Harun, were also present at the event.

He also reported that during this year’s haj season, 22 Malaysian pilgrims passed away in the Holy Land, a reduction from the 28 deaths recorded last year. Most of these deaths, 20 in total, were due to heart-related conditions, while the remaining two were believed to have resulted from lung infections.

Mohd Na’im commended Malaysian pilgrims for their discipline and adherence to the regulations set by Tabung Haji (TH) and the Saudi Ministry of Haj and Umrah. Additionally, he expressed gratitude to media organisations for their comprehensive coverage of this year’s haj operations, noting that the reports enhanced TH’s image and showcased the dedication of TH staff.

He concluded by stating that the 2025 haj operations would officially end with the arrival of the final group of 232 pilgrims at 12.10 pm tomorrow.