Kota Kinabalu: The last batch of 101 Sabah pilgrims arrived safely at Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) here at 5.10am on Wednesday.
They were greeted by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister (Islamic Affairs), Datuk Ruslan Muharam, and Tabung Haji (TH) Sabah Director Yusdi Nasip.
The pilgrims from Sandakan and Lahad Datu departed from Prince Mohammad Bin Abdul Aziz International Airport, Madinah, at 9am (Saudi Arabia time) last Monday on a Malaysia Airlines flight.
Ruslan congratulated TH for its excellent service in managing the pilgrims from the beginning of their journey to the Holy Land until their return to Sabah.
He said TH’s commitment is proven, with the recognition of the Saudi Arabian government for TH that was named as the recipient of the Saudi Arabian Labbaitom Award for the Best Service category for the third time in a row.
It was reported in the Star that Tabung Haji also received the Labbaitom Award for the Best Haj Guide Service and Programme in the Islamic World in February last year.
Ruslan said TH’s efficiency in managing the Hajj operation has become an example to other countries and one of the best Hajj managers in the world.
“TH’s commitment will be a catalyst for the next Hajj, at the same time fostering confidence for future pilgrims,” he said.
A total of 940 from Sabah performed the Hajj this year.
