Extreme Heat Prompts New Hajj Rules for Malaysian Pilgrims

Malaysia Issues Hajj Warning: Extreme Heat Prompts New Rules for Pilgrims Jeddah, Saudi Arabia – Malaysian pilgrims embarking on the Hajj pilgrimage this year face new restrictions due to a predicted extreme heatwave. The Saudi Ministry of Hajj & Umrah, in a recent announcement, has banned pilgrims from walking between Masjidil Haram and Arafah, citing temperatures expected to soar to 50° Celsius during the Masyair period. This decision follows heatstroke incidents among pilgrims in previous years. "Due to the extreme heat, we've had to put these restrictions in place to ensure the safety of all pilgrims," said Datuk Dr Mohd Naim Mokhtar, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department. In addition to the walking ban, access to Jabal Rahmah and Masjid Namira will be restricted between 10 am and 4 pm. The Saudi Ministry of Transport has pledged to provide sufficient transportation to accommodate the pilgrims. This proactive measure aims to prevent heatstroke and ensure the well-being of all participants in this year's Hajj.