The Ministry of Transport (MOT) and Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad have once again approved the use of special airport lane for Ayyappan devotees travelling to India for the annual Sabarimala pilgrimage, easing the journey for thousands of Malaysian Ayyappan devotees.
The special lane first introduced last year is aimed at facilitating smoother movement for devotees who observe strict religious vows during their pilgrimage including travelling barefoot and adhering to specific customs. This initiative is expected to benefit more than 50,000 Ayyappan devotees over the next three weeks, a peak period for pilgrimage travel.
President of Malaysian Ayyapan Swamy SEVA Sangam, Yuvaraj Gurusami said the provision of special lanes is a meaningful recognition of the needs of Ayyappan devotees, many of whom are elderly and require additional assistance at the airport.
He expressed gratitude to Ministry of Transport, Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad and Sentosa State Assemblyman, Gunaraj George for their continue efforts in supporting the initiative. He stated that this special facility greatly helps devotees who have completed the 48-day vows and are travelling for once-a-year pilgrimage.
Yuvaraj Gurusami, also encouraged devotees to coordinate their travel plans in advance with Malaysian Ayyapan SEVA Sangam to ensure they can fully benefit from the special facilities. He also reminded the devotees to strictly comply with aviation safety regulations.
Items such as ghee, coconuts are not permitted on flights due to safety concerns, as they considered flammable or pose operational risks. Devotees are advised to follow airline and airport guidelines closely to avoid inconvenience and ensure smooth operation of the special facilities provided.
Sources: Nambikkai, BERNAMA
