Straits Central Agencies Sdn Bhd (SCA) has successfully finalised all preparations for this year’s haj pilgrims under the SCA Travel Haj Package, with the final stage being a comprehensive pre-departure briefing held at J Sutera Ballroom, J Hotel, Kiulap.
The event gathered prospective pilgrims to receive important information and guidance ahead of their pilgrimage journey.
Speaking at the event, SCA Agent Haji Adi Hisyamuddin bin Haji Mat Bakar said all preparations for this year’s haj pilgrims have been completed, including accommodation, transportation and visa arrangements, with the briefing serving as the final stage before departure.
He shared that upon arrival from Brunei, the pilgrims will stay in Madinah for eight days before proceeding to the holy city of Makkah, followed by the pilgrimage rites in Arafah and Mina.
A total of 148 intending pilgrims will travel under SCA this year, comprising 78 men and 69 women, all of whom are adults.
The programme began with the arrival of intending haj pilgrims, followed by refreshments. A Manasik of Hajj briefing was then delivered by Ustaz Pengiran Haji Reduan Pengiran Haji Badaruddin, covering the rites and practical aspects of performing the haj.
This was followed by a session on haj management and logistics presented by International Operations Manager Haji Rafiuddin Shariff Nooruddin and Umrah & Hajj Liaison Officer Haji Md Suffian Haji Md Shariff, providing details on travel arrangements and preparations for the pilgrimage.
With hot weather expected during the haj season, Haji Adi Hisyamuddin advised pilgrims to take extra care of their health and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, particularly in Arafah and Mina, where temperatures are expected to be most challenging. He also reminded them to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.
On the current situation in the Middle East, he said some pilgrims had raised concerns regarding conditions in the region. He assured them that SCA is closely monitoring developments and, God willing, flights will not be affected. He also advised pilgrims in Makkah to remain with their groups and to inform accompanying officers if travelling alone.
The event also included a question-and-answer session, allowing participants to seek clarification on matters related to their haj journey.
Haji Adi Hisyamuddin expressed hope that all arrangements and journeys for this year’s pilgrims will proceed smoothly and that all will attain a mabrur haj.
He also reminded pilgrims to remain patient when facing challenges, adding that SCA will continue to do its best to safeguard their safety, welfare and health.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
