Ambassador hopes fast track service to be implemented at all embarkation points

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian government hopes that the Fast Track (express lane) service under the Mecca Route can be implemented at all embarkation points in Indonesia, as it helps to accelerate the immigration process for Indonesian prospective Hajj pilgrims upon their arrival in the holy land.

The Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Saudi Arabia, Abdul Aziz Ahmad, stated that the service greatly aids the smooth arrival of pilgrims, particularly in reducing long queues at the airport.

“Alhamdulillah, we express our thanks to the Saudi Arabian government for enabling a swift immigration process through the Thariq Makkah fast track,” said Abdul Aziz in Madinah on Wednesday.

He explained that the fast track service is currently only applied to a portion of prospective Hajj pilgrims. However, in the future, the government hopes that all Indonesian Hajj pilgrims can enjoy similar facilities.

“Now, it might still be only half; in the future, we hope all pilgrims can experience this kind of process,” he said.

In addition, he also responded to the distribution of Nusuk cards that have been given to pilgrims since in their home country. The card is considered to facilitate access to services and support the smooth conduct of worship during their stay in Saudi Arabia.

On the same occasion, Abdul Aziz also appreciated the readiness and responsiveness of the Hajj Service Organiser Officers (PPIH) at the Airport Area of Work, who are deemed capable of ensuring that the arrival process for pilgrims runs smoothly.

“We express our thanks to the officers, especially the Head of the Airport Area and the entire team, for their responsiveness so that this morning’s process went very smoothly,” he said.

The government has also ensured that pilgrim accommodation is prepared optimally. Each flight group (kloter) is placed in one hotel to facilitate coordination and service.

For the first two kloters, the pilgrims receive a hotel that is very close to the Prophet’s Mosque, namely in the area in front of the mosque, thus making it easier to access worship.

“The first two kloters receive the best hotel in front of the haram, so pilgrims can directly head to the mosque easily,” he said.

The government hopes that the entire series of Hajj services this year will run smoothly without obstacles, and all pilgrims can perform their worship safely, comfortably, and with devotion.