Minister Indicates Potential Increase in Hajj Costs for Next Year

The Minister of Religious Affairs, M. Irfan Yusuf, also known as Gus Irfan, has revealed the possibility of an increase in the Hajj Organising Cost (BPIH) for 2027.

Gus Irfan stated that this potential rise is inseparable from the geopolitical dynamics in the Gulf region, specifically the rising price of aviation fuel.

“It is likely to increase,” said Gus Irfan at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Monday (28/9).

Gus Irfan has not yet provided a detailed estimate regarding the scale of the increase in Hajj costs for next year. He did, however, confirm that the government will strive to find solutions to ensure this situation does not become a burden for prospective pilgrims.

“But we will endeavour to find a way; that is why I requested guidance from the President on how we can avoid placing too much of a burden on the pilgrims,” he said.

At the same time, Gus Irfran acknowledged that President Prabowo Subianto has expressed a desire to see a reduction in Hajj costs. However, he emphasised that this intention was formulated before the outbreak of conflicts in the Gulf region, which have led to skyrocketing global crude oil prices.

“Yes, he requested a decrease because, previously, there was no extraordinary geopolitical situation in the Middle East. That is why I reported the latest developments to him,” he added.