{
  "id": 12083507,
  "title": "Hajj financial aid to continue for pilgrims",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/05/hajj-financial-aid-to-continue-for-pilgrims",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-05T05:16:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2026/10/1547985/hajj-financial-aid-continue-pilgrims"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "KUALA LUMPUR: The Hajj Financial Assistance (HAFIS) program will continue, according to Tabung Haji (TH) chief Dr Zulkifli Hasan. The targeted approach to providing financial aid to Malaysians performing the haj has been endorsed by the National Haj Muzakarah since 2019. HAFIS, not a subsidy, was introduced in 2001 and has maintained the cost of performing the haj at RM33,300 for four seasons from 2024 to 2027 despite rising costs. Despite inflation and increased haj-related expenses, TH has managed to contain cost increases for four consecutive years. Zulkifli highlighted TH's financial achievements, including RM4.64 billion in investment income for 2025 and a profit distribution rate of 3.5% in 2025. The government will balance assistance for pilgrims with TH's responsibility to protect depositors and maintain financial sustainability.",
  "summary": "KUALA LUMPUR: Hajj Financial Assistance will continue under a targeted approach as Tabung Haji (TH) balances assistance for pilgrims with its long-term financial sustainability.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}