Middle East Tensions: Puan Urges Government to Prepare Mitigation Measures for 2026 Hajj
Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives Puan Maharani has demanded that the government immediately prepare mitigation and contingency measures for the 2026 hajj pilgrimage amid the escalating and unresolved geopolitical situation in the Middle East.
“We are asking all relevant parties to conduct evaluations, mitigation and contingency planning in response to the current situation,” Puan said after presiding over a plenary session of the DPR in Jakarta on Thursday, 12 March.
Nevertheless, Puan expressed hope that the 2026 hajj pilgrimage would proceed smoothly and comfortably. Notably, there has been no notification from Saudi Arabian government authorities regarding any postponement of the 2026 hajj.
“Whatever issues or matters related to religious observance must still be carried out in the best possible manner,” she stated.
Based on this position, Puan said she would request Commission VIII of the DPR to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the situation and conditions. According to her, both the government and DPR must ensure the safety of pilgrims.
“Certainly, the DPR RI through the relevant commission will conduct assessments, evaluations and take any necessary measures given the current situation to ensure safety and comfort for Indonesian hajj pilgrims,” she said.
Commission VIII of the DPR confirmed that as of now, no notification has been received from Saudi Arabian government authorities regarding the implementation of the 2026 hajj pilgrimage.
Deputy Chair of Commission VIII, Abidin Fikri expressed optimism that the 2026 hajj would proceed as planned and Indonesian pilgrims would be dispatched according to schedule.
However, Abidin urged the government, through the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, to maintain intensive communication to ensure clarity of information for pilgrims. The PDIP politician also called on the public to remain calm.
“Since there has been no prohibition notice from Saudi Arabian authorities, unlike during the previous COVID-19 pandemic,” he said.