Cover image via Siti Nur Aishah / Berita Harian
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Several Malaysian Umrah pilgrims are currently stranded in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, after their flights were cancelled following US-Israel's strikes on Iran
According to Berita Harian, airspace closures in the Middle East due to the ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran left many travellers in a state of financial distress.
Siti Nur Aishah Muhammad Nazri said her savings may last only another five days if the situation does not improve.
The 26-year-old, travelling with her grandmother, expressed concern over the rising costs of food, accommodation, and transportation.
"We appeal for assistance with housing and food for the duration of our time here because not everyone is wealthy or can afford the extra costs," Siti Nur Aishah said
She also hoped the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) would step in to provide assistance.
The Kedah native admitted she has not been able to sleep soundly due to the uncertainty.
Meanwhile, another pilgrim, Irshad Harris, 32, accepted the situation as a moment of reflection while stranded with three friends
Irshad took a digital-first approach to the crisis, creating a WhatsApp group to help over 30 other stranded Malaysians share information and maintain a sense of community.
"The purpose is for us to share updates and current information," the Johor Bahru resident explained.
Irshad secured a flight ticket for RM1,200, though prices for the direct route later surged to RM2,400
For many, these tickets were a last hope to escape the mounting tension.
Elderly pilgrims, some as old as 75, reportedly grew anxious as they awaited news on when they could finally return home.
