MAKKAH, June 3 — Carrying large quantities of Zamzam water as souvenirs may result in complications, with haj pilgrims’ luggage subject to detention or inspection by Saudi authorities.

Haj Pilgrims Operations deputy director Mohd Ridzuan Yusoff said that despite annual reminders, some pilgrims still attempt to bring extra Zamzam water home by concealing it in their luggage.

He explained that such actions not only violate airline regulations and Saudi authorities’ rules but may also result in the luggage being held for further inspection.

“Some believe Zamzam water can be hidden by wrapping it in various materials, but once the luggage goes through the screening process, its contents can still be detected.

“When this happens, the luggage will be opened by the authorities for inspection, and the items inside may not be repacked as they were originally,” he told reporters while carrying out the City Check-In (CCI) operation here today.

Mohd Ridzuan said a more concerning risk is that pilgrims’ personal belongings may be misplaced or damaged during the inspection process if their luggage has to be opened.

He advised pilgrims to always comply with all regulations and not take unnecessary risks simply to bring back more Zamzam water.

On a related development, he said the CCI operation implemented by Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) in collaboration with airlines is aimed at facilitating pilgrims’ return journey, as luggage can be checked in 48 hours before departure.

He explained that with this facility, pilgrims no longer need to carry large bags to the airport, as their luggage will be handled in advance at their respective accommodation buildings.

“Pilgrims only need to bring themselves and permitted essential items when heading to the airport. This also helps reduce their burden after completing the haj pilgrimage,” he said.

Mohd Ridzuan also stressed that the maximum baggage allowance is 30 kilogrammes (kg) per pilgrim, even though they are allowed to bring two bags.

“For example, one bag weighing 12kg and another 18kg - the total must not exceed 30kg,” he said, adding that the CCI operation, introduced in 2013, has become one of TH’s key initiatives in enhancing the travel comfort of Malaysian haj pilgrims. — Bernama