Islamic Minister Dr. Mohamed Shaheem on Thursday stated that the top priority during this year’s Hajj was to ensure the safety, health, and wellbeing of the pilgrims in a hot environment, adding that there are still areas for improvement.

In a message to the media, the Minister said this was the second-largest number of pilgrims handled by the Hajj Corporation in their history.

Therefore, there will be shortcomings in such a thing that happens among millions of people beyond our own control, he said.

"This time, the highest priority was given to the safety, health, and wellbeing of the pilgrims in a hot environment. A pilgrim died of natural causes. May God have mercy on the deceased," he stated.

Noting that this year's congregation of pilgrims is the second largest handled by Hajj Corporation so far, the Minister said he is pleased that the Hajj operation has been successful by the grace of Allah.

"There are things that need to be improved. Insha Allah they will be improved next year," he said.

Noting the quality of services provided to the pilgrims this time, the minister said the pilgrims were provided with quality Maldivian food and high-quality health services for the sick. The minister also noted that the Hajj Mission had arranged for all, including the sick, to be taken to Arafat.

A total of 1,150 pilgrims from the Maldives journeyed to Mecca to perform Hajj pilgrimage this year, which included 50 pilgrims financially supported by the state.