Andre Rosiade Appreciates Hajj Hotel and Transportation Services for Pilgrims in Prabowo's Era

Andre Rosiade made the remarks following a working meeting with Amirul Hajj in Mecca on Sunday (24 May 2026 local time). Based on his on-site observations, Andre assessed that the quality of services for Indonesian Hajj pilgrims this year has significantly improved compared to previous years, from departure processes, accommodation, catering, to transportation in the holy land. ‘Overall, from departure up to today, we certainly appreciate that the service has been much better than before. This is something we must emphasise. From the time pilgrims depart until today, Alhamdulillah the service has been good and deserves appreciation,’ said Andre, who is also Vice Chairman of Commission VI of the House of Representatives. The Gerindra politician from West Sumatra highlighted the improved regular pilgrims’ accommodation in Medina. He stated that this year, the government successfully provided more comfortable lodging facilities located very close to Masjid Nabawi. Thousands of regular pilgrims reportedly enjoy five-star hotel amenities. Andre confirmed he witnessed the service firsthand, noting that 8,507 Indonesian pilgrims are staying in five-star hotels with the furthest being approximately 700 metres from Masjid Nabawi. ‘This is remarkable. I saw with my own eyes how pilgrims receive excellent service. 8,507 of our pilgrims are staying in five-star hotels, with the farthest only around 70 metres. This is a significant advancement and deserves appreciation,’ said the Chairman of the Minangkabau Family Association (IKM). Besides accommodation, Andre praised the government’s efforts to maintain food quality. He said budget efficiency was achieved without compromising service quality, with catering costs reduced by four Riyals compared to 2025 while food quality improved. Additionally, Andre commended the government’s innovative transportation solutions for pilgrims staying in distant areas like Al-Hidayah. He noted that direct buses to Masjidil Haram have been implemented, significantly reducing travel time and improving comfort. ‘Al-Hidayah is relatively distant, but I see the Ministry of Hajj and DPR have implemented the right solution. The buses are direct to Masjidil Haram, now taking only around 20 minutes. This is a huge help for pilgrims,’ Andre said. Andre emphasised these improvements demonstrate the government’s seriousness in enhancing Hajj service quality for Indonesian citizens. He expressed hope that this year’s positive changes would be sustained and further improved in future Haj seasons to ensure pilgrims’ comfort and devotion during their worship in the holy land.