Hajj Organisation Praised, Then Evaluated
The Indonesian Minister of Hajj and Umroll, Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, has emphasised that his department does not wish to become complacent despite widespread praise for the smooth execution of this year’s Hajj pilgrimage.
“There has been enough praise and appreciation. Today, we begin our evaluation. While praise serves as motivation and a boost for us, evaluation remains our primary necessity to rectify previous shortcomings,” he stated following the opening of the National Working Meeting for the Evaluation of Hajj Organistion 1447H/2026 in Jakarta.
Several crucial points are under scrutiny during this evaluation. In the health sector, the Ministry aims for a drastic reduction in pilgrim mortality rates. Although deaths were suppressed this year, the Minister targets a significant decrease for next year, potentially bringing the figure down to around 200.
Furthermore, the limited space in Mina remains a serious concern given the steadily increasing pilgrim quota. “We have considered the possibility of using multi-storey tents to increase capacity. However, this will depend on our communications with the Saudi Arabian authorities,” he explained.
Regarding future Hajj costs, the government is maintaining a realistic stance in the face of global dynamics. Currency depreciation, fluctuations in aviation fuel prices, and changes in service policies by the Saudi Arabian government are expected to influence price components. Consequently, the Ministry of Hajj will work alongside the House of Representatives (DPR RI) to formulate a sustainable cost structure that does not burden pilgrims.
The Chairman of Commission VIII of the DPR RI, Marwan Dasopang, appreciated the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah’s transparent approach in evaluating performance down to the regional levels. He noted that while improvements in service have earned public praise, in-depth evaluation is absolutely essential.
Marwan provided specific notes regarding the implementation of ‘istithaah’ (health capability) for pilgrims. He highlighted the limitations of the Ministry’s infrastructure at the local level to care for pilgrims once departure is confirmed.
“Is it possible for the Ministry of Hajj to care for pilgrims as soon as their departure is set? The problem is that the Ministry lacks the infrastructure and even the organisational structure to reach the lower levels. How will they collaborate with other parties? This is what needs to be studied today,” Marwan remarked.
Furthermore, the DPR RI recognises that the success of the Hajj pilgrimage heavily depends on the Saudi Arabian authorities. Commission VIII is committed to supporting the Indonesian government’s efforts to persuade Saudi Arabia to provide the best possible facilities and ease for Indonesian pilgrims.