Menhaj Affirms Commitment to Protect Hajj Pilgrims from Embarkation

Minister of Hajj and Umrah Mochamad Irfan Yusuf stated that the services provided by officials to Hajj pilgrims must prioritise protection and inclusivity, especially for vulnerable groups. He conveyed this during the official appointment of the Hajj Organising Committee (PPIH) for Embarkation across Indonesia for 1447 H/2026 AD. He explained that embarkation serves as the first space where the presence of the state can be felt by Hajj pilgrims, thus requiring the best services from the officials. “The elderly, people with disabilities, women, and other vulnerable groups must be the primary focus, not just an afterthought,” he said in a statement on Saturday (18/4/2026). The integrity of officials is also a primary concern. Gus Irfan, his familiar nickname, reminded that the trust of pilgrims must not be betrayed. “There must be no abuse of authority or discriminatory services. Hajj officials must set an example in honesty and service ethics,” he stated. Regarding the murur and tanazul schemes, Gus Irfan described them as part of efforts to protect and facilitate pilgrims. He emphasised the importance of valid data collection and comprehensive explanations to the pilgrims.