Legislator Reminds Government to Optimise Safety and Comfort Aspects for Hajj Pilgrims in 2026

A member of Commission VIII of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) from the PDIP faction, Selly Andriany Gantina, has reminded the government not to repeat the same mistakes in organising the 2026 Hajj. She stressed that pilgrim services must be oriented towards safety and comfort, rather than mere administrative matters.

The statement was delivered during a working meeting with the Minister of Hajj and Umrah at the parliamentary complex in Jakarta on Wednesday (8/4).

“There must be seriousness in ensuring the best services for pilgrims, as per the expectations of President Prabowo Subianto,” Selly said in a statement received on Thursday (9/4).

Selly highlighted recurring classic issues. For example, pilgrim hotels that are far from the agreed specifications.

This situation has the potential to disrupt the devotion of worship, especially for elderly pilgrims and those with disabilities. Not only that, but also basic facilities such as places for ablution.

Selly reminded that, with Indonesia’s long experience in organising Hajj, fundamental problems like this should no longer occur.

The same applies to the national airline, Garuda Indonesia. Selly urged strict supervision of the aircraft fleet’s readiness as well as the quality of in-flight catering services to guarantee pilgrims’ health during the journey to the Holy Land.

“We want to provide the best services; pilgrims should not receive substandard treatment. This concerns their comfort and health, especially since the majority of pilgrims are elderly,” she explained.

Considering the heating geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East region, Selly asked the government to take concrete anticipatory steps against the potential escalation of conflict. She urged the development of a thorough evacuation protocol and the determination of safe zones for Indonesian pilgrims in the Armuzna area (Arafah, Muzdalifah, Mina).

Furthermore, she emphasised the importance of a comprehensive protection scheme that includes protection in emergency conditions.

“All worst-case scenarios must be anticipated from the start. We want to ensure that Indonesian pilgrims receive maximum protection in any situation,” she clarified.