Security measures and flexible deployment of servicemen during the Hajj season for 2018 are more tactical in terms of strategy, speed of intervention, rescue and guidance, while adapting modern technology to serve pilgrims, said a Thai army adviser.
All measures have contributed significantly to facilitating the flow and transportation of pilgrims, and ensuring their safety, despite the small area where more than two million pilgrims have gathered, the general told Asharq Al-Awsat.
“This is challenging to achieve even by countries with top security systems,” he added.
The Thai army adviser praised efforts exerted by the Saudi government to facilitate the pilgrimage and access to the holy sites for Muslims coming from all over the world without discrimination.
He thanked Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz for the warm welcome he received at the Guests of King Salman Hajj and Umrah program.
Reviewing Hajj, the general hailed the pilgrimage as a means for interaction among Muslims from different racial backgrounds.
“Such gatherings contribute to Muslims from all races coming together, to promoting tolerance and love," he said.
Furthermore, the military adviser said he was looking forward for the restoration and strengthening of relations between Bangkok and Riyadh.
“There is a great difference between the past and the present of holy sites," said a former Thai parliamentarian, referring to ongoing development projects for Makkah infrastructure.
For years now, Saudi authorities have invested in developing Hajj-related sites in order to provide each year’s pilgrims with comfort to perform Hajj rituals at ease.
“Across the board expansions for accommodating Muslim masses have facilitated the movements of pilgrims,” he added.
The Islamic College of Thailand dean said that Muslims in his country make up about 10 percent of the 70 million population.
