Frequent Fraud Cases Prompt East Kalimantan Hajj Ministry Office to Warn Pilgrims to Beware of Fast-Track Hajj Offers

The East Kalimantan Office of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has issued a stern warning to the public to heighten vigilance against offers of “fast-track” Hajj and Umrah that lack clear legality. “We are conveying this appeal following the proliferation of fraud cases that have disadvantaged pilgrims by billions of rupiah in the East Kalimantan region,” said Acting Head of the East Kalimantan Ministry of Religious Affairs Office, Mukhlis Hasan, in Samarinda on Monday (13/4/2026). Mukhlis stressed the importance of comprehensive verification before the public deposits money with travel organisers. “We urge the public to check and double-check thoroughly. Do not be easily swayed by promises of instant departures without official procedures. Ensure confirmation with the Ministry of Religious Affairs offices at the district or provincial level before transacting,” Mukhlis emphasised. According to Mukhlis, promises of quick departures are often merely a modus operandi for scams. High prices do not guarantee safety, and similarly, unreasonably low prices should be suspected. “The key lies in the track record of the organiser. Ensure that the travel agency holds an official permit as an Umrah Pilgrimage Travel Organiser (PPIU) or Special Hajj Worship Organiser (PIHK) registered in the Ministry of Religious Affairs’ Pusaka application,” he added. In response to global geopolitical dynamics, Mukhlis assured that the pilgrimage departure process continues to run according to schedule thus far. There is no official information regarding any delays. He asked prospective pilgrims to remain calm, maintain physical health, and refer only to official government information.