Batang Regency Ensures 949 Hajj Pilgrims Meet Health Requirements

Batang (ANTARA) - The Batang Regency Government in Central Java has ensured that 949 prospective Hajj pilgrims out of a total of 951 in embarkation groups (kloter) 16, 17, and 18, who are set to depart for the Holy Land, Mecca, on Sunday, have met the health requirements. “Therefore, I emphasise to all of you to always maintain your physical health. Do not force yourself into optional activities if your physical condition does not permit, so that your energy is preserved for the obligatory Hajj rituals, especially during the standing at Arafah later,” said Batang Deputy Regent Suyono in Batang on Sunday. He hoped that the prospective pilgrims would uphold the good name of the region and the Indonesian nation while in the Holy Land, Mecca. “Demonstrate the character of Batang’s people who are polite, harmonious, and helpful. We hope that the pilgrims in one embarkation group will mutually support cooperation and solidarity, and remind each other like family members,” he said. “Focus fully on the series of worship to achieve the status of an accepted Hajj, both for men and women,” he added. Head of the Batang Regency Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Office, Siti Mahmudah, explained that this year’s prospective pilgrims from local areas number 951, but two of them have postponed their departure due to health reasons. The departure of groups 16, 17, and 18 took place on Sunday, at scheduled times from early morning until midday. “Upon arrival at the embarkation point, the prospective pilgrims will receive various facilities, such as passports, visas, Nusuk cards, identification bracelets, and pocket money of 750 riyals. In addition, they will undergo a repeat health check before entering the dormitory,” she said.