DPR Hajj Oversight Team Calls for Enhanced Pilgrim Protections Following Hanania Case

DPR Hajj Oversight Team member Hidayat Nur Wahid has called on the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to strengthen protections for pilgrims following allegations of fraud by Hanania Travel that have affected thousands of prospective pilgrims. Hidayat expressed his concern over the case while in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, according to a statement received in Jakarta on Monday. ‘We deeply regret the recurrence of this tragedy. Under the latest law, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah must actively seek solutions and push for compensation or restitution for the pilgrims,’ Hidayat said. He stated that the case cannot be viewed merely as a consumer-business dispute but requires active government involvement. Previously, responsibility for protection was largely placed on travel agencies, but now the government has a greater duty to oversee and address issues when they arise. He believes the law should serve as a tool to prevent recurring fraud, as the government has been mandated to conduct more intensive monitoring, evaluation, and oversight. ‘The state must provide official and easily accessible information about registered, compliant, and accredited travel agencies, amid widespread advertising and testimonials by influencers,’ he said. Transparency is crucial in protecting the public given the prevalence of social media promotions for umrah trips, which are often difficult for prospective pilgrims to verify. In addition to government oversight, Hidayat highlighted public participation as an important part of the oversight system under the Hajj and Umrah Service Law. ‘Pilgrims reporting this case should not feel alone or be intimidated. They are exercising their legally guaranteed rights, and the state must provide protection,’ he said. Hidayat also urged influencers and public figures to prioritise transparency and professionalism when promoting umrah travel services. ‘Influencers must disclose whether their content is purely personal opinion or part of a company partnership. If there is a partnership, they must remain professional to avoid misleading potential consumers,’ he said. Police spokesperson for Jakarta Metropolitan Police, Kombes Pol. Budi Hermanto, stated in a press release on Saturday, May 30, that the detention followed the identification of ASF as a suspect on Friday, May 29. ‘ASF was named a suspect on May 29, 2026, and has since been detained at the Jakarta Metropolitan Police’s detention facility,’ Budi said.