WOMEN pilgrims will not be penalised for wearing a mask while in ‘ihram’ (in state of consecration), said Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) guidance operations director Tengku Aziz Raja Abdullah.

He said this is among the resolutions adopted through the 37th National Haj Muzakarah, following questions when Saudi Arabia made the use of masks mandatory during this haj season.

It is permissible for women to wear masks during the pandemic and as such, this is not a violation, he added.

“According to the rules of ‘ihram’, it is all right for men to cover their faces and they will not be penalised. But for women, this is one of the prohibitions, and they will be subjected to dam (penalty).

“The haj muzakarah decided that if authorities ordered everyone to wear masks because of the pandemic, it is permissible and no dam will be imposed.”

Dam is a penalty, or compensation, which one has to offer if he or she breaks any rule while performing haj or umrah rituals.

All TH guides have been instructed to convey the ruling in their briefings and courses for pilgrims before and after arriving in Saudi Arabia.

Tengku Aziz said the ruling may change from time to time based on instructions from the Saudi Arabian government.

A total of 48 flights will bring 14,306 Malaysian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia this year, with the last flight slated for July 2. – Bernama, June 9, 2022.