At PPIH Inauguration, Government Affirms Commitment to Protect Hajj Pilgrims

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Minister of Hajj and Umrah Mochamad Irfan Yusuf stated that the services provided by officials to Hajj pilgrims must prioritise protection and inclusivity, particularly for vulnerable groups. He conveyed this during the official inauguration of the Hajj Organising Committee (PPIH) for Embarkation Points across Indonesia for the year 1447 H/2026 AD. He explained that the embarkation point is the first place where pilgrims can feel the presence of the state, thus requiring the best services from the officials. “The elderly, people with disabilities, women, and other vulnerable groups must be the primary focus, not just an afterthought,” he said in a statement in Jakarta on Saturday. The integrity of officials was also a key highlight. The Minister reminded that the trust of pilgrims must not be betrayed. “There must be no abuse of authority or discriminatory services. Hajj officials must set an example in honesty and service ethics,” he stated. Regarding the murur and tanazul schemes, the Minister described them as part of efforts to protect and facilitate pilgrims. He emphasised the importance of valid data collection and comprehensive explanations to pilgrims. Additionally, he paid special attention to the governance of sacrificial animals, which must be carried out accountably and transparently. If performed in Saudi Arabia, pilgrims must do so through the official Adahi Project mechanism. From a technical perspective, he urged all PPIH Embarkation committees to ensure readiness based on accurate and precise data, from documents and pre-manifests to pilgrim placement, health services, and the well-organised distribution of pilgrims’ needs. In his directive, the Minister affirmed that this inauguration is not merely a ceremony but a strengthening of the mandate that must be carried out with sincerity. “This inauguration is a reaffirmation of the trust to deliver real guidance, services, and protection for pilgrims starting from the embarkation point,” he said. He also invited all PPIH Embarkation members, whether present in person or virtually, to work as a unified team.