First Probolinggo Hajj Group Arrives in Indonesia with One Death and One Illness in Saudi Arabia

The first group of Hajj pilgrims from Probolinggo, East Java, disembarking from Surabaya, arrived in Indonesia via Juanda International Airport in Sidoarjo on Monday evening (1 June). Saudia Airlines flight SV 5124 landed punctually at 20:45 WIB.

Of the 380 pilgrims dispatched, 378 returned safely, while two were unable to join the group due to one fatality and another requiring intensive medical treatment in Saudi Arabia.

Ida Nursanti, a representative from the Probolinggo Hajj Organising Committee (PPIH), confirmed that the deceased, Asraf, 68, passed away in the Holy Land due to heart complications. Abdul Jalal remains in Saudi Arabia for hospital treatment, suffering from heart, lung, and stroke complications. “One of our pilgrims has passed away, and the other is still receiving care due to heart, lung, and stroke complications. We have initiated the tanazul process to ensure handling follows PPIH Saudi procedures,” she said.

Extreme weather challenges were noted by organisers, with temperatures in Saudi Arabia reaching 49°C, posing health risks, especially for elderly pilgrims. Upon landing, several pilgrims performed sujud syukur (prostration of gratitude) to thank God for a smooth pilgrimage. Ahmad Ubaidillah, one pilgrim, expressed relief after waiting 14 years for his turn: “Alhamdulillah, despite initial crowding, the Ministry of Religious Affairs’ services were exceptional from mid-process onwards. Overall, this year’s services were excellent and significantly better than last year,” he said, adding that the return flight proceeded smoothly without delays.

The arrival of the first group marks the beginning of the phased return of Surabaya-departing Hajj pilgrims over the coming weeks. The 1447H Hajj operations at Surabaya embarkation have officially commenced, with 760 Probolinggo pilgrims departing via Juanda Airport using pre-clearance services.