Middle East Geopolitics Heating Up, Puan Ensures Indonesian Pilgrims Will Still Depart for Hajj

Indonesia’s House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani has emphasised that the safety of Indonesian hajj pilgrims must be the top priority amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Puan has called on all relevant stakeholders to immediately conduct evaluations and risk mitigation measures to anticipate the impact of regional conflicts on the 2026 hajj pilgrimage.

Despite uncertain global conditions, Puan assured that the government and the House of Representatives remain committed to ensuring the hajj pilgrimage proceeds in the best possible manner.

“Of course, with the global geopolitical situation as it is, whatever issues or matters related to the pilgrimage must still be carried out in the best possible way. However, we also ask all relevant parties to conduct evaluations, mitigation, and anticipatory measures regarding what is happening,” Puan stated at the Parliament Complex in Senayan, Central Jakarta, on Thursday (12 March).

Puan explained that the House of Representatives, through its relevant commissions, will soon conduct an in-depth study to respond to developments in the Middle East region. This evaluation encompasses transport security, accommodation, and pilgrim protection procedures whilst they are in the holy land.

This step was taken to provide reassurance to prospective Indonesian hajj pilgrims scheduled to depart in the coming months.

“The House of Representatives, through its relevant commissions, will conduct studies, evaluations, and measures that must be taken with a situation like this. The purpose is to continue providing safety and comfort for Indonesian hajj pilgrims who, God willing, will still carry out their pilgrimage,” Puan stated firmly.

Puan warned the government that tensions in the Middle East should not be used as a reason to permit increases in transportation costs for pilgrims.