The hajj simulation programme for children, “Young Hajj Programme 2022” by IIUM Educare was held on 07th July 2022 at Central Complex, IIUM Mosque, International Islamic University Malaysia, Gombak. This meaningful program was attended by 234 six years old kindergarten children and followed by teachers, mutawwif guides and management team IIUM Educare.
The programme was the fourth of its kind since it was introduced in 2019. The aim of this simulation is to educate young Muslims of the importance of the haj and remove any fear or anxiety when they perform the actual rites around the crowded Kaabah.
Furthermore, this programme is very important since Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam. Equally important as we know, it must be fulfilled by those who are capable. The primary objectives for this programme are to educate and instil the values of the hajj pilgrimage among six years old children.
Hajj consists of several ceremonies, which are meant to symbolize the essential concepts of the Islamic faith, and to commemorate the trials of Prophet Abraham and his family. Other than the circling a 10-feet replica of the Kaabah, the children were also taught how to wear ihram clothing, performing the wuquf at Mount Arafat, the stay at Muzdalifah and Mina, performing the jamrah, saei, and tahallul. The children also threw pebbles at a wall during a practice version of the “stoning of the devil”, another of the hajj rituals.
In conclusion, IIUM Educare Sdn Bhd has successfully held a physical simulation Young Hajj Programme for the year of 2022. A special congratulations to all teachers, children and all management staff who are directly or indirectly involved. The children were so excited, they are now looking forward to conducting the actual Hajj pilgrimage.
