JEDDAH, 27 December 2004 — Saying Islam is under constant attack, Minister of Haj Iyad Madani called on Tawafa establishments responsible for pilgrims’ accommodation and transportation to remain vigilant to ensure that security and tranquillity prevailed throughout Haj.
He said channels of communications should remain open between Tawafa establishments, the ministry and other government bodies to report any suspicious activities that could disturb the peace during Haj.
Speaking in Makkah after meeting with officials at the South Asia Tawafa Establishment, Madani said Islam is coming under assault from all directions and Haj represents an opportunity for Muslims to show to the world that Islam is a religion of equality, brotherhood, openness and acceptance of others.
In a few weeks, the Kingdom will play host to more than two million Muslims from all over the world who would assemble for the annual pilgrimage to Makkah. Haj will reach its climax on Jan. 20 when the pilgrims observe the Standing at Mount Arafat outside the holy city. This is the most important part of Haj without which the religious duty would be incomplete.
“We want Haj to be the practical response and example (to show others) of what the Muslim society really stands for. Islam is being attacked from all directions. Every conceivable accusation is leveled against it. Haj is an opportunity to prove to others that Islam is the religion that built a great civilization and continue to produce individuals capable of accomplishing great things, including serving the pilgrims. Muslims can prove they are competent, tolerant, open to others and are upholders of the principles of equality and brotherhood,” said Madani.
The overwhelming majority of pilgrims come from Asian countries, led by Indonesia which this year would send 2005,000 pilgrims. Other Asian countries of large numbers of pilgrims include Pakistan (154,000 pilgrims) and India (120,000 pilgrims).
Madani called on Tawafa bodies to ensure that the pilgrims’ comfort and satisfaction came before any other consideration and stressed the need for those employed by these bodies to remain in constant contact with pilgrims throughout their stay and respond to their needs.
