The joyous homecoming of 252 pilgrims marked the successful return of the first haj flight at Brunei International Airport on Wednesday morning. Family members and friends eagerly awaited the arrival of the flight, which touched down at 8:51 am.
Welcoming the pilgrims were esteemed dignitaries, including Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Defence II as Chairman of Board of Directors of Perbadanan Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei (TAIB), and Dato Seri Setia Dr. Awang Haji Mohammad Isham bin Haji Jaafar, the Minister of Health.
The returning pilgrims comprised various groups, including four Haj Management Officers in the fields of administration and medical services. Additionally, Darussalam Services Sdn Bhd, Straits Central Agencies (B) Sdn Bhd, Titian Travel and Tours Sdn Bhd, Al-Hijrah Travel and Tours Sdn Bhd, and At-Taqwa Travel Tours Sdn Bhd each brought their respective groups of pilgrims, totaling 47, 71, 40, 53, and 37 individuals.
The annual haj pilgrimage holds immense significance for Muslims around the world, and the safe return of these pilgrims was cause for great celebration. The pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, is a profound spiritual journey for Muslims, and it is heartwarming to witness the warm welcome received by returning pilgrims.
The Brunei government, along with the Ministry of Religious Affairs and other officials, has taken extensive measures to ensure the well-being and safety of the pilgrims throughout their haj journey. This includes providing comprehensive medical support and maintaining close coordination with various travel agencies involved in organizing the pilgrimage.
The successful return of the first haj flight signifies the efficient and diligent efforts put forth by all those involved in facilitating this sacred journey. It is a testament to the collective commitment to ensuring a smooth and meaningful haj experience for Bruneian pilgrims.
As the pilgrimage season continues, authorities will remain dedicated to the welfare of all pilgrims, providing necessary support and assistance. The haj pilgrimage is a deeply cherished tradition, and the safe return of the first flight sets a positive tone for the remaining pilgrims embarking on this sacred journey.
May the returning pilgrims be blessed with a sense of fulfillment and spiritual enlightenment from their haj experience, and may their safe return inspire others to undertake this holy pilgrimage in the future.