THE Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) has appealed to Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah to intervene in the matter of Saudi Arabia’s suspension of umrah visas.

Deputy president Mohd Akil Mohd Yusof said this is for the benefit of Muslims.

“As a Malaysian citizen and Matta deputy president representing Muslims, I appeal to His Majesty to hold discussions with Saudi Arabia’s King Salman Abdulaziz Al Saud on reconsidering the suspension of visas for umrah and ‘ziarah’ (visits) to the kingdom,” he told a press conference in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.

Saudi Arabia announced the suspension on Wednesday, with the move aimed at curbing the spread of Covid-19.

The Saudi Press Agency reported that Riyadh has also barred the entry of visitors from countries affected by the coronavirus.

Akil expressed hope that the suspension will be lifted soon.

“We call on those affected not to panic, and to contact their tour agents to find the best solution.

“We also urge all Matta members to attend to the affected customers in the right manner.

“Matta will continue to work with the authorities, to facilitate the affairs of those affected.”

Last year, some 270,000 Malaysians performed the umrah, he said. – Bernama, February 28, 2020.