Mandatory Medical Screening for Singapore’s Haj Arrangements

1299. Dr Wan Rizal: To ask the Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs (a) whether the Government has data on the percentage of pilgrims who have cleared the medical screening for the upcoming Haj; and (b) whether the Acting Minister can share how the Government or MUIS will be assisting those who did not clear the medical screening.

Response:

1.             Of the applicants who have undergone medical screening for this year’s Haj pilgrimage, about 98% cleared the medical screening.  

2.             As for the remaining applicants, the Fatwa Committee has provided guidance based on their medical circumstances. For those who are unable to perform Haj due to health reasons, they may defer their Haj participation to a later year. For those who are suffering from chronic conditions and are unlikely to recover, they may appoint a proxy to perform Haj on their behalf (Haj Badal). However, if this cannot be fulfilled despite all efforts, the Haj obligation is lifted for them.

3.             MUIS will provide further details on the Haj Badal arrangement when ready.