BRUNEI-MUARA

A TOTAL of 32 retired and in-service members of the Ministry of Defence (MinDef) and Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) will depart the sultanate to perform the Haj with their families this year.

The ministry yesterday held a blessing ceremony for the intending pilgrims at the surau of Berakas Garrison yesterday.

In a statement, MinDef said the prayer was to bless the Haj pilgrims in their journey to the holy city of Mekah, and return to Brunei with a Haj accepted by Allah SWT.

Deputy Minister of Defence Dato Paduka Hj Mustappa Hj Sirat and his spouse were the guests of honour.

They also presented donations to the pilgrims.

Also present were Commander of Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF), Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih Abdullah and his wife.

The pilgrimage to Mekah is the fifth pillar of Islam. It is compulsory for Muslims who are financially capable to perform the Haj.

The Brunei Times