Deputy Minister of Hajj: Tightening Health Capability Requirements Reduces Hajj Pilgrim Death Toll for 2026

The Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak, revealed that the 2026 Hajj pelaksanaan has achieved significant positive milestones, most notably a drastic reduction in the number of deaths among Indonesian pilgrims compared to the previous year. Dahnil explained that this decline in fatalities is the direct result of stricter health capability (istitaah) requirements implemented by the Indonesian government prior to departure.

“The number of deaths among our pilgrims has decreased drastically. Last year, it reached around 400, while this year, as of today, it is recorded at around 180. The reduction is very significant, from 400 to 180,” Dahnil Anzar stated in Makkah on Wednesday. According to the Deputy Minister, this reduction of more than half proves that the pilgrims dispatched this year are in much healthier physical condition and are better prepared for the series of rituals in the Holy Land. This health capability policy is an absolute mandate from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which has been adapted by the Indonesian government to ensure pilgrim safety.

In addition to health aspects, Saudi Arabian authorities have expressed high appreciation for Indonesia’s Hajj management this year. The Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah noted that Indonesia has made a “giant leap” in improving its organisational systems. Key managerial successes highlighted include the elimination of systemic issues such as accommodation errors, hotel mix-ups, and extreme fatigue caused by irregular waiting times.

Dahnil added that every minor complaint from pilgrims is currently being handled with a fast-response principle. Field officers are on standby to resolve any issues promptly to ensure pilgrims can worship with focus. The Deputy Minister also urged Hajj officers not to relax their services during the repatriation phase and reminded pilgrims to prepare physically for the Mina-Jamarat route, which covers 28 km for Nafar Tsani. Furthermore, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is tightening tent arrangements in Arafat to ensure all 2026 pilgrims receive fair, orderly, and equitable services.