Hajj Observer Says Scrapping 'Lunas Tunda Ganti' Scheme Requires Formal Regulation, Not Just Statement

An observer has stated that the abolition of the ‘lunas tunda ganti’ (deferred full payment) mechanism for special hajj pilgrims cannot be implemented solely through a verbal statement. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah recently scrapped the scheme to close loopholes exploited by certain Special Hajj Organisers (PIHK) and to ensure that pilgrim departures adhere to the queue number system. Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak said the decision was part of governance reforms aimed at making special hajj management more transparent, fair, and accountable. Responding to the policy, hajj observer Mustolih Siradj acknowledged that the elimination of the scheme addresses the need to protect special hajj pilgrims, giving them certainty of departure, and closes gaps for alleged manipulation by unscrupulous actors. However, Mustolih emphasised that the Deputy Minister’s statement must be accompanied by the necessary legal instruments. He argued that the policy must be enshrined in a Ministry of Hajj regulation to serve as a legal basis. He urged that such policies not only be addressed through statements but also followed up in a more concrete form, namely as a legal product to provide a legal umbrella. He added that the steps outlined by the Deputy Minister would be relevant if the announcement of departing special hajj pilgrims is made at least six months in advance. Pilgrims, both special and regular, should be announced well ahead of time, as the quota is already determined and the hajj timeline has been communicated by Saudi authorities.