This was revealed by Tabung Haji’s group managing director and CEO, Mustakim Mohamad, who said the new health protocol includes the shutting down of the TH treatment centre in Mecca, Bernama reported.

Mustakim said the new regulations introduced by the Saudis would be enforced by TH and must be strictly followed by Malaysian pilgrims to obtain their haj visa.

He said one of the key requirements is that pilgrims must be free from infectious diseases, serious or uncontrolled chronic conditions, and have the physical ability to perform haj rituals independently.

“Pilgrims with conditions, such as chronic kidney or heart failure, chronic lung or liver disease, cognitive or motor impairments, high-risk pregnancies, or undergoing treatment for cancer will not be eligible to perform the haj,” he said in a statement.

Mustakim advised prospective pilgrims to prepare physically for the journey, given the long stay in Saudi Arabia and the hot, dusty conditions.

He stressed that good health remains a key requirement for haj pilgrims, which is in line with the health ministry’s mandatory health screenings for pilgrims.

Mustakim also said the TH treatment centre will be closed  from next year, and pilgrims requiring treatment will be referred to Saudi hospitals, with supervision from Malaysian medical personnel.

However, TH will continue to provide medical services at clinics based in the pilgrim accommodation centres in Mecca and Madinah.

These clinics will have qualified medical staff from the health ministry to provide outpatient services and pharmacy support.

The clinics will also provide assistance for the elderly and those with disabilities.

Mustakim said TH will deploy 225 healthcare personnel to support pilgrims for the 2026 haj season.

He said TH was committed to prioritising the safety, wellbeing, and comfort of Malaysian pilgrims by dedicating a significant portion of its haj quota to medical staff.