Commission VIII Highlights Preparedness of Emergency Services and Systems at Medan Embarkation

National Info — Commission VIII Chairman of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Marwan Dasopang, led a direct inspection of the departure of the second Hajj batch at Medan Embarkation, North Sumatra, on Wednesday, 22 April 2026. During this working visit recess, Marwan ensured that the entire embarkation process ran smoothly according to plan to provide the best service for the pilgrims.

“Today, we are inspecting the departure of the second batch from Medan Embarkation, all of whose pilgrims come from Langkat Regency. From our observations, the process is running well. The procedures have been made efficient and not convoluted so that pilgrims avoid fatigue,” Marwan stated.

Marwan explained that although the preparation period at the embarkation was relatively short, coordination between the Provincial Religious Affairs Office and related agencies ran smoothly. Health checks, visa validation, Nusuk, and verification of health istitha’ah requirements were carried out meticulously.

“Alhamdulillah, from the first batch to the second batch, everything could depart without obstacles. This indicates that the selection process and health care for pilgrims have been carried out correctly from the beginning,” he added.

Regarding the increase in Hajj operational costs, particularly due to the surge in avtur prices reaching Rp8 million per pilgrim, Marwan emphasised that this burden would not be passed on to the Hajj pilgrims.

“Commission VIII is convinced that if this additional cost is borne by the pilgrims, it will be very burdensome. Not to mention Rp8 million, even an additional Rp1 million would be heavy. Therefore, the Government and the DPR agree that this cost will not be borne by the pilgrims,” stressed the PKB Faction politician.

In addition to financing aspects, Commission VIII also highlighted the importance of mitigating field challenges, such as flight delays or excessive crowding. Marwan urged the government to prepare various emergency scenario options at every stage of the pilgrimage.

“There must be emergency scenarios that are mitigated. For example, if catering is delayed due to obstructed road access, there must be a stock of fast food that has been prepared. We even requested simulations if pilgrims are trapped on an elevated route and cannot move, including the readiness of emergency ladders and so on,” he explained.

Finally, Marwan appreciated the steps taken by the Ministry of Religious Affairs in providing intensive training for Hajj officials, both in terms of understanding the rituals, knowledge of locations, and physical endurance. He also invited all of society to pray that the global geopolitical situation improves so that Indonesian Hajj pilgrims can perform their worship with devotion. “We hope the pilgrims can maintain their physical abilities until the peak of Hajj, and return to the homeland in good health and as accepted Hajj pilgrims,” said Marwan.