Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak and Muslim leaders last night attended a banquet given by the Saudi Arabian government at Mina Palace.

They were feted by Saudi Arabian Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, Crown Prince Naif Abdul Aziz.

Also present were Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Jamil Khir Baharom, Malacca Yang di-Pertua Negri Mohd Khalil Yaakob and Defence Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

Jamil Khir was given the honour to speak in the Arabic language representing the government and Muslims in Malaysia.

The Muslim leaders join some three million Muslims from all around the world to perform the haj pilgrimage.

Meanwhile, Arab News reported that Naif, who is also head of the supreme haj committee, urged Muslim leaders and Muslims to choose a path of unity and peace to end crises.

“The rapidly growing demand challenges us to comprehend future risks. We should realise that schism, discord and split in the Muslim world will bring nothing but fragmentation, chaos and weakness.”

The crown prince warned that enemies have been waiting for disunity to  occur among Muslims.

On the haj, he said services to pilgrims are of highest concern to the kingdom and have been continuously improved with manpower and material.

“Despite challenges posed by a growing number of pilgrims and space limitations, the haj organising, health and security have reached very high levels,” he added.

- Bernama