The afternoon session of the 20th session of the Legislative Council (LegCo) meeting yesterday brought to light several critical issues concerning the affordability of haj and the efforts to enhance religious education integration.
Minister of Religious Affairs Yang Berhormat Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman acknowledged the need for adaptation and announced the formation of an ad hoc committee to review accommodation packages.
However, it was emphasised certain accommodation issues, particularly those in Saudi Arabia, were beyond control and were influenced by factors such as price increases in the region.
The minister said accommodation packages are derived from feedback provided by past pilgrims and adjusted to address their concerns.
He said the welfare of pilgrims remains a top priority and religious education integration is consistently reviewed for the benefit of stakeholders.
Earlier, LegCo member Yang Berhormat Hajah Safiah binti Sheikh Haji Abdul Salam highlighted the increasing costs of haj pilgrimage, prompting the need for a comprehensive dialogue on this.
According to Yang Berhormat Hajah Safiah, the rising expenses have made it increasingly unaffordable for many, even with the provision of financial support.
The concern underscores the urgency for a thorough examination and discussion of the issue within the legislative framework, she said.
A key aspect of the discourse focused on the integration of religious education, where there is still room for improvement. The discussion delved into the need for better utilities and infrastructure, particularly in surau and ablution areas. Concerns were also raised about the need for supervision during intervals to ensure a conducive learning environment.
LegCo member Yang Berhormat Mohammad bin Abdullah @ Lim Swee Ann drew attention to the increased costs of haj, specifically affecting civil servants and muallaf who did not receive sufficient funds for the pilgrimage.
He raised concerns about waqaf land, citing an example of a prayer hall built on such land later vacated due to the construction of a mosque nearby. The issue of abandoned buildings attracting socially ill activities was acknowledged, and the minister clarified that the fate of waqaf land ultimately depends on the wishes of the giver.
The minister also assured that the process would be followed by the Brunei Islamic Religious Council, and matters related to waqaf land would be dealt with under Syarak.
The minister also explained that haj funds for civil servants and muallaf are mere privileges and not rights, which can be claimed such as in an estate. – Fadley Faisal
