Government Urges Hajj Pilgrims to Maintain Stamina and Beware of Hot Weather

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The government has urged Indonesian prospective Hajj pilgrims who have arrived in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, to maintain their stamina, drink plenty, and be wary of weather conditions expected to reach 34 degrees Celsius with around 25% humidity. “We urge pilgrims to maintain their stamina, drink more, and follow the directions of officials. The weather is quite hot, so it is important to keep the body in good condition,” said Ministry of Religious Affairs Spokesperson Ichsan Marsha in Jakarta on Friday. As of the fourth day of operations, 15,349 people from 40 flight groups (kloter) have been dispatched to the Holy Land. Of that number, 9,884 people from 25 kloter have arrived in Madinah. From that figure, 93 people underwent outpatient treatment, two were referred to the Indonesian Hajj Health Clinic (KKHI), and one was referred to a Saudi Arabian Hospital (RSAS). The Ministry of Religious Affairs also expressed condolences for the passing of one Hajj participant from Kloter SOC-3, Rodiyah (68), due to a heart attack. The government ensures the fulfilment of rights, including the implementation of replacement Hajj. To maintain the physical condition of pilgrims, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has instructed Hajj Service Officials (PPIH) at embarkation points to minimise ceremonial activities during departures as they could impact pilgrims’ fitness. The government also reaffirms its commitment to providing elderly-, disability-, and women-friendly Hajj services, as a form of the state’s concern in Hajj worship services.