Kuala Terengganu: The Sultan of Terengganu, Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin, has advised Haj pilgrims to uphold decorum and avoid any misconduct that could tarnish Malaysia’s reputation and its diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia. His Royal Highness emphasised the importance of adhering to Saudi laws and regulations, maintaining Malaysia’s reputation as a disciplined and well-mannered Haj contingent.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Sultan conveyed his message through the Yang Dipertuan Muda of Terengganu, Tengku Muhammad Ismail Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin, during the Haj Pilgrims Send-Off Ceremony at Sultan Mahmud Airport. He urged the pilgrims to take care of their health and personal hygiene throughout their stay in the Holy Cities of Makkah and Madinah.

The Sultan also requested the 142 departing pilgrims to pray for Terengganu’s continued prosperity, safety, and protection from calamities. He further encouraged them to pray for patience and peace for those facing trials nationwide, as well as for fellow Muslims in Palestine and other conflict zones.

Earlier in the ceremony, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar announced that a total of 2,008 pilgrims from Terengganu would be departing via eight flights, with 495 of them already having safely reached Madinah.

Additionally, Sazli Hafizan Zahid, 27, shared his gratitude for the opportunity to perform Haj with his mother, Siti Hawa Ibrahim, 64. As the youngest of eight siblings, Sazli credited his mother’s foresight in opening a savings account for him in 2009, which enabled him to undertake the pilgrimage at a young age while accompanying her. He expressed appreciation for the divine blessing that allowed him to care for his mother and still participate in the Haj, as well as for the approval of his request for an earlier flight, ensuring his return in time for the birth of his first child.