MECCA: Pilgrims should take precautions as the current temperature in Saudi Arabia can cause heat stroke, says Malaysian Haj Delegation head Datuk Seri Syed Slor="#CC0000">aleh Abdul Rahman.

       He said the temperature was quite high between 38 to 48 degrees Celsius and could increase further.

       Syed Slor="#CC0000">aleh reminded Malaysian haj pilgrims to ensure that they are not too exposed to the hot weather for a long period and always drink enough water.

       He said this when met by reporters at Abraj Al Janadriyah which houses the Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) headquarters here.

       Meanwhile, one of the pilgrims met by Bernama, Zaharri Hassan, 61, said that he would go to the mosque during the Subuh, Maghrib and Isyak prayers.

       "I will still try to go to the mosque because this is an opportunity that I might never get again. But if the weather is too hot, I will try to protect myself and make sure I drink enough water," said Zaharri who is in the Holy Land with his wife, Jamilah Othman, 54.

       Mohamad Bakri Hishamudin, 54 said he will go to the mosque by taxi if the weather gets too hot, adding that TH has also reminded them to be careful because of the current weather condition.

       "I perform umrah in the morning and only buy necessities at the nearest shop,” he said.

       In another development, Syed Slor="#CC0000">aleh said the number of pilgrims is still small in Makkah, thus those who wished to go to Masjidil Haram should always be vigilant about their safety.

       "Pilgrims must ensure their safety, move in groups instead of going alone which can cause risks," he said, and also reminded pilgrims to always wear their identification and special bracelet. - Bernama