For first-time umrah pilgrim Sharazuddin bin Haji Masri, the journey to the holy city of Makkah would be an indescribable blessing. Alongside his wife and two children, Sharazuddin expressed immense gratitude to Allah the Almighty for granting him the opportunity to perform the sacred pilgrimage.
The experience is new and deeply special, he shared, adding that he prays this will not be his last pilgrimage and that their ibadah will be accepted and filled with blessings throughout the journey.
Sharazuddin and his family were among the group of intending umrah pilgrims on board a Royal Brunei flight to Jeddah yesterday. The flight carried over 30 pilgrims from Straits Central Agencies (B) Sdn Bhd (SCA) and a group from Al-Miqat Travel and Tours Sdn Bhd. The flight also included a large contingent of umrah pilgrims from Sabah.
As he bid farewell to his family at the airport, Sharazuddin admitted feeling overwhelmed with emotion, silently offering prayers of gratitude while preparing for the life-changing journey.
The umrah pilgrimage is a profound experience for Muslims and can be performed year-round. However, many opt for the winter season, from November to February, as cooler weather makes rituals like Tawaf and Sa’i more comfortable. January, in particular, is an off-peak season, offering fewer crowds, more affordable travel costs and a tranquil atmosphere for worshippers.
Pilgrims travelling in January can take advantage of the pleasant weather and smaller crowds, allowing for a more peaceful and focused performance of rituals, as well as more time to pray at the holy sites.
For Hajah Miskiah Fadzillah, this journey marks her second umrah pilgrimage. Along with her husband, their four children, her mother-in-law and a nephew, Hajah Miskiah appreciated the convenience of travelling during a less crowded period, particularly with young children and elderly family members.
The family, who previously performed umrah in 2018, also chose SCA as their trusted umrah agent.
Drawing experience during their first pilgrimage, they hope for a smooth and blessed journey, wishing all intending pilgrims on board will achieve a ‘mabrur’ umrah. – Lyna Mohamad
