1 May 2026
In December 2007, at the age of 48, I performed my first Hajj pilgrimage. It came at a deeply emotional period in my life, just months after my late wife passed away in June 2006 following a tragic bus accident on our way home from a holiday in Penang. After 24 years of marriage, her sudden loss left a void that words could hardly describe.
In my search for healing and a closer connection to Allah SWT, I enrolled in a Hajj crash course to prepare myself—both physically and spiritually—for the journey ahead. That pilgrimage became a turning point in my life, guiding me through grief towards acceptance and renewed faith.
Amidst the rituals and the sea of fellow muslims, I found a sense of peace and syukur (gratitude) that slowly mended my aching heart. It brought me closer to Allah in ways I had never experienced before.
By the will of Allah, I was blessed with a second chapter in life when I remarried in November 2009, a reminder that even after hardship, Allah grants new beginnings filled with hope and purpose.
In June 2010, I was blessed with the opportunity to perform Umrah with my wife, a deeply meaningful and cherished experience for both of us. Upon returning from Makkah, we registered with the shared hope and sincere intention of one day performing Hajj together, side by side, as part of our spiritual journey.
In 2019, my wife received the long-awaited call to perform Hajj. While I was truly happy for her, I was unable to accompany her, as I had already performed Hajj and needed to wait before being eligible again. It was a test of patience, acceptance, and trust in Allah’s timing.
Years went by. In 2023 and again in 2024, I received invitations to perform Hajj, but I chose to decline them, feeling that the time was not yet right. Then, in November 2025, another invitation came. By then, having been retired for over two years, I felt a sense of readiness—both in heart and in mind. This time, I accepted, trusting that it was finally the moment Allah had destined for me.
As 2026 Hajj pilgrimage approaches, I stand at the beginning of this blessed journey once again. With more life experience, renewed faith, and a heart full of gratitude, I prepare to return to the sacred lands.
And so, the journey begins... Looking back at my first experience :
First Sight of the Kaaba
Seeing the Kaaba for the first time was overwhelming. Words cannot fully describe the emotions—I felt peace, awe, and deep connection all at once.
Rituals and Reflection
Performing tawaf and sa’i was physically demanding, but spiritually uplifting. Each step reminded me of patience, faith, and trust in Allah.
The Day of Arafah
Standing in prayer on the plains of Arafah was the most powerful moment of my journey. It was a time for reflection, repentance, and sincere dua.
Lessons Learned
Hajj taught me patience, humility, and gratitude. Despite the challenges, every moment was meaningful and rewarding.
Looking Back
My Hajj in 2007 changed me in ways I cannot fully put into words. It was more than a journey across distance—it was a journey within, one that reshaped my heart, strengthened my faith, and taught me the meaning of patience, surrender, and syukur. The experience stayed with me long after I returned home, quietly guiding how I see life and my relationship with Allah SWT.
Yet, as life unfolded, I faced my share of challenges. Like any human being, I have had moments of da‘f—times when I made choices that fell short of the values I aspired to uphold. There were periods when I drifted, tested by dunya and its distractions. Still, through it all, the lessons of that first Hajj remained within me, gently calling me back and reminding me of what truly matters.
Now, as I prepare for my second Hajj in May 2026, I do so with humility and hope. My heart longs to return—not just to a sacred place, but to a renewed state of faith and consciousness of Allah. I look forward to recharging my iman, increasing my syukur, and seeking forgiveness for my shortcomings.
May this upcoming journey be accepted, and may it bring with it greater barakah, guidance, and steadfastness in the path ahead.
Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik.
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