AMPHURI Criticises Centralised E-Wallet Discourse for Umrah Management

The Indonesian Association of Hajj and Umrah Organisers (AMPHURI) has highlighted concerns regarding the proposed implementation of an Umrah e-wallet, which has recently emerged as part of the new governance framework for Umrah pilgrimages. The organisation, which represents hundreds of pilgrimage travel providers, has requested that the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah involve associations in the drafting of all derivative regulations for Law Number 14 of 2025.

This issue was a primary topic of discussion during the 2026 AMPHURI National Working Meeting (Mukernas) held at the Novotel Hotel, Palembang, on Tuesday (23/06/2026). The annual forum, themed “Kokoh Berlaban, Tangguh Menempuh” (Firmly Anchored, Resiliently Navigating), also featured a public dialogue regarding the Umrah e-wallet proposal previously introduced by the Minister of Hajj and Umrah.

The General Chairman of DPP AMPHURI, Firman M. Nur, stated that the enactment of Law Number 14 of 2025 brings both hope and anxiety for Hajj and Umrah business operators. On one hand, the regulation offers opportunities to create more professional and transparent services under the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

On the other hand, there are growing fears regarding increasingly centralised management, which could potentially diminish the role of private business operators. According to Firman, while Law Number 14 of 2025 aims to strengthen pilgrim protection, digital innovation, and ecosystem sustainability, various derivative policies must be formulated alongside relevant stakeholders.

“Many parties hope that the management of Hajj and Umrah services under the control of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah will be able to create more transparent operations,” he said in a press release received on Wednesday (24/06/2026).

He noted that the Umrah e-wallet proposal continues to spark debate among industry players. While some view it as a solution to enhance transaction transparency and pilgrim protection, others believe the policy could impose a new burden on the sustainability of Umrah Travel Organisers (PPIU) and Special Hajj Organisers (PIHK).

Consequently, AMPHURI has made this issue a focal point of this year’s Mukernas. The organisation also plans to submit several recommendations to the government regarding the administration of Hajj, Umrah, and Muslim tourism.