Saudi Government Praised For Improved Haj Facilities

from Abdul Aziz Harun MECCA, Nov 9 (Bernama) - The Saudi Arabian government has been praised for providing improved facilities for the comfort and convenience of haj pilgrims from all over the world. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Jamil Khir Baharom said the expansion of Masjidil Haram (Grand Mosque), completion of Mina-Arafah transportation system and construction of the tower clock should be commended. "The infrastructure available is excellent. All three million haj pilgrims could perform the stoning ritual despite the limited time given. "Cleanliness has also seen improvement," he told a banquet to Muslim leaders given by the Saudi Arabian government in Mina Monday night. Jamil also congratulated recently appointed Crown Prince Naif Abdul Aziz who is also Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister. Also present were Malaysia's southern state of Melaka's Governor Mohd Khalil Yaacob and Defence Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. -- BERNAMA Malaysia