Saudi Gazette report

KUALA LUMPUR — King Ibrahim bin Iskandar of Malaysia has presented the prestigious Hijra Personality of the Year award to Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah. This international award, which is also known as the “Prophet's Hijra Award,” was presented in recognition of Saudi Arabia's pioneering role in enhancing the Hajj and Umrah experience.

The honor was bestowed during an official ceremony in Kuala Lumpur celebrating the Hijri New Year 1447 AH, held under the patronage of King Ibrahim bin Iskandar with the theme “Building a Civil Nation.” The ceremony was held in the presence of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Minister of Religious Affairs Dr. Mohd Na'im bin Haji Mokhtar.

The annual award recognizes two individuals, one Malaysian and one international, whose contributions have had a significant and positive impact on their communities, particularly in promoting Islamic values and serving the Muslim nation.

Dr. Al-Rabiah was honored for the Kingdom's transformative efforts in modernizing Hajj and Umrah services and enhancing the overall experience for pilgrims worldwide. The award is one of Malaysia's most distinguished national honors and is traditionally conferred in conjunction with the anniversary of the Prophet’s Hijra.