Complete Tabung Haji Guide 2026: Savings Strategy, Dividends & Online Hajj Registration
The moment you hear Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH), the first thing that comes to mind is undoubtedly the Hajj pilgrimage. However, are you aware that behind this iconic green fund lies one of the most unique and efficient financial management instruments in Malaysia?
For the investor community at Mahersaham, understanding the ins and outs of Tabung Haji is not merely about preparing for the Holy Land, but also about smart, Shariah-compliant, and zakat-free financial portfolio management.
In this comprehensive guide, we shall dissect in depth everything you need to know about Tabung Haji, particularly in 2026.
What Is Tabung Haji? (More Than Just an Ordinary Bank)
Many assume Tabung Haji is merely a bank for saving money. In reality, TH is the largest Islamic fund management institution in Malaysia.
Unlike conventional banks, the money you deposit in TH is invested across various Shariah-compliant sectors such as property, financial services, and plantation. The profits from these investments are then returned to depositors in the form of Profit Distribution (Dividends).
Unique Features of Tabung Haji Savings:
- Fully Shariah-Compliant: No elements of riba (usury), gharar (uncertainty), or maysir (gambling).
- Zakat Already Paid: This is the greatest advantage. The dividends you receive are net. You do not need to worry about calculating zakat on savings every year because TH has already settled it on your behalf.
- Government Guaranteed: Every sen of your savings is guaranteed by the Malaysian Government under the Tabung Haji Act 1995.
How to Open a Tabung Haji Account (2026 Digital Edition)
Forget the days of queuing at post office counters or TH branches. In 2026, everything is faster through the digital ecosystem.
A. Adult Account (18 Years and Above)
You can take your first step through the THiJARI application.
- Download the THiJARI application.
- Fill in your personal details online.
- Make your first transfer (minimum RM10) via Online Banking (FPX).
- You only need to visit a counter once for biometric registration (fingerprint) as a security measure.
B. Children's Account (Under 18 Years)
As parents (Legal Guardians), you are strongly encouraged to open an account for your child as early as one day old. Why? Because the hajj queue is calculated based on the registration date, not age. The earlier you save, the earlier they get the opportunity to go to Mecca.
Understanding Tabung Haji Dividends (Profit Distribution)
Many ask, "How much is the Tabung Haji dividend this year?". For the record, TH's performance over the past several years has shown extraordinary stability even amidst challenging global economic conditions.
Dividend Calculation Method:
TH dividends are calculated based on the Lowest Monthly Average Balance.
Simple Formula:
(Lowest Monthly Balance x Distribution Rate) / 12 months
Tip: Do not withdraw money at the end of the month if it is not necessary. Ensure your balance remains high throughout the month to maximise dividend returns at the beginning of the following year.
Hajj Registration: The Journey to Baitullah
This is the primary goal of every depositor. To register for hajj, you need a minimum savings balance of RM1,300.
Tabung Haji (TH) has announced that the payment structure for 2026 remains the same as 2025.
Hajj Cost & Payment Breakdown 1447H/2026M
The actual cost of hajj per Muassasah pilgrim is RM33,300. Below is the payment breakdown by income category after subsidy (Hajj Financial Assistance):
| Category | Pilgrim Payment (Cost to Bear) | Total Subsidy (Borne by TH/Government) |
|---|---|---|
| B40 | RM15,000 | RM18,300 |
| M40 | RM23,500 | RM9,800 |
| T20 | RM33,300 (Full Payment) | RM0 |
Important Notes on Appeals
Fundamentally, pilgrims selected through out-of-turn appeals (applying to go earlier than their allocated year) are required to pay the full hajj cost of RM33,300, regardless of their income category.
However, exemptions from full payment (eligible for subsidy based on category) are usually granted for appeals based on the following reasons (subject to TH approval):
- Mahram: A wife appealing to accompany her husband, or a child appealing to accompany their parents (if the selected pilgrim is their mahram).
- Elderly: An assistant to a selected elderly pilgrim.
Hajj Appeal Strategy: If you wish to perform hajj earlier than your queue date, you can submit an appeal through THiJARI starting from the month of Syawal each year. Focus your appeal on the grounds of "Elderly" or "Mahram".
Digital Integration: THiJARI & Internet Banking
One of the "Power Moves" for dedicated savers is linking their TH account with their existing bank.
- Maybank2u / CIMB Clicks / Bank Islam: You can link your TH account to view your balance and make transfers in real-time.
- THiJARI Advantages: Besides checking your balance, you can download statements for income tax purposes, manage beneficiary nominations (Hibah Amanah), and register for hajj.
Tabung Haji vs ASB: Which Is Better?
At Mahersaham, we always emphasise portfolio diversification.
- ASB may offer a slightly higher percentage return.
- Tabung Haji provides peace of mind because zakat has already been paid and its purpose is worship.
Our recommendation? Use both. Use TH as a fund for worship and an emergency fund that is "purified" from zakat, while ASB is for long-term capital growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the minimum balance to maintain a Tabung Haji account?
The minimum balance to keep the account active is RM10. However, to register for hajj, you need RM1,300.
2. Can I withdraw Tabung Haji money through an ATM?
Yes. You simply need to link your bank ATM card (Maybank, CIMB, Bank Islam, AmBank) with your Tabung Haji account.
3. What is Hibah Amanah?
It is a form of beneficiary nomination so that your savings can be channelled directly to your loved ones without going through the lengthy estate claim process in court should you pass away.
Conclusion
Tabung Haji is a gem within Malaysia's Islamic financial system. It is not merely a place to save festive money for children, but an instrument that combines worldly blessings (dividends & zakat) and hereafter goals (hajj).
For those of you who are serious about managing your finances more wisely in 2026, ensure your Tabung Haji account is fully optimised.
It is a great step if you have already started saving consistently in Tabung Haji — that is a very important foundation for blessings and future planning.
But, if you want to accelerate your wealth growth further and do not want to rely solely on one source of returns, it is time to "upgrade" your financial strategy.
Why not start learning and investing in shares on Bursa Malaysia yourself. If you are still at zero and do not know how to begin, you can start by opening a CDS account under Mahersaham. Tuan Maher is a registered dealer's representative under the Mplus Broker.
If you are interested in opening a CDS account, click here: OPEN CDS ACCOUNT