The cost of performing haj remains the same as last year, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Jamil Khir Baharom said.
However, the 2010 cost was only applicable for first timers and not repeat pilgrims who would not be able to enjoy subsidy.
He said the government did not raise the cost although fares had increased due to higher fuel price not to mention higher management costs in Makkah and Madinah.
“The subsidy given to each pilgrim shot to RM 4,360 from RM 3,060 last year,” he said when opening Sekolah Kebangsaan Gurun Parent Teacher Association general meeting today.
Jamil said the performance and profit by Tabung Haji last year were considered when retaining the cost for pilgrims particularly those over 75 years.
“The Saudi Arabian government condition that the room be expanded from 3.5 to 4sqm per person means that less than five will be sharing a room.”
He urged those who had performed haj not to apply to give those over 75 years the chance to go.
“Tabung Haji is trying to get additional quota for Malaysia so that the waiting period for pilgrims can be reduced from 20 to 10 years.”
– Bernama
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