Harassment can happen to anyone, anywhere, even in places we consider sacred. Recently, Zhiddin Aziz shared an unsettling incident he faced during his Umrah pilgrimage, highlighting that not even Mecca is immune to uncomfortable encounters.
An Unexpected and Disturbing Encounter
After completing his pilgrimage, Zhiddin took to TikTok to describe an unnerving experience that has since gone viral, amassing nearly 900,000 views in less than a day. In the video, he explained how an unknown Arab man approached him in the lobby of a Mecca hotel, asking who he was with and expressing a desire to accompany him to his room.
As the man continued to make vague excuses, Zhiddin confronted him directly, asking if he had inappropriate intentions. The man appeared startled but didn’t deny Zhiddin’s suspicions.
Throughout the interaction, the man repeatedly tried to touch Zhiddin’s hand, adding to the discomfort. Zhiddin firmly expressed his disinterest, stating that he wanted no part in the behavior being suggested.
Emotional Impact and Prior Incidents
Viewers noted that Zhiddin seemed visibly shaken in the video. He later confirmed feeling a range of emotions during the incident—fear, frustration, disbelief—as he processed the unexpected encounter.
Zhiddin shared that this wasn’t the first time he had faced harassment. In fact, he recounted two previous experiences of similar unwanted advances, including one incident near the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This latest encounter lasted around 20 minutes, with Zhiddin eventually managing to deter the man from following him any further.
Staying Composed in a Difficult Situation
When asked how he maintained his composure, Zhiddin explained, “I tried to stay calm and respond politely, not wanting him to act more aggressively.” He shared that his faith helped him navigate the situation, guiding him to focus on the act itself rather than condemning the individual.
“I believe everyone has their own reasons and backgrounds. By responding calmly, I hoped to de-escalate the situation and keep myself safe. I viewed it as a test for both him and me,” Zhiddin reflected.
Seeking Support and Advice for Others
Although deeply shaken, Zhiddin opted not to report the incident to hotel staff or local authorities, as he didn’t want to disrupt his mother’s focus on worship. Instead, he informed the Umrah group staff, who offered support and ensured that someone accompanied him whenever he went out.
Reflecting on the incident, Zhiddin shared advice for anyone who may find themselves in similar situations. “Stay alert and trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable or threatened, stay calm, seek help, and avoid being alone in secluded areas. Always let someone know where you are.”
Zhiddin also emphasized the importance of addressing behavior over judging individuals. “Condemn the behavior, not the person. We don’t know the reasons behind someone’s actions. Addressing the inappropriate behavior while keeping calm can help prevent unnecessary conflict and avoid fostering hatred.”
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