Ministry of Hajj prohibits Indonesian pilgrims from carrying Zamzam water in luggage

The Ministry of Hajj confirms the repatriation process for the first wave of Indonesian Hajj pilgrims to Indonesia is underway in phases, via King Abdul Aziz International Airport in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Spokesperson Maria Assegaff stated that the repatriation phase is a critical part of the 1447 AH/2026 CE Hajj operations. The government is committed to strict monitoring of pilgrims’ movements from hotel accommodations to airport departures. ‘Today, Monday, 1 June 2026, corresponding to 15 Zulhijjah 1447 AH, the Hajj operations have entered day 42. Overall, this year’s pilgrimage has proceeded smoothly, safely, and under control,’ Maria said in Jakarta on Monday (1/6). Despite the smooth process, Maria emphasised that the government is noting on-ground issues for evaluation to improve service quality for future Hajj seasons. Operational data as of 10:00 WIB on Monday (1/6) shows 17 flight groups (kloters) scheduled to return to Indonesia, with 12 already departed carrying 3,479 pilgrims and 36 Hajj officers. The Ministry of Hajj has issued a stern warning against carrying Zamzam water in luggage, whether in checked baggage or cabin. Maria stressed that this violates aviation regulations and can disrupt airport screening processes. ‘We reiterate: do not place Zamzam water in luggage. This could hinder baggage checks. The government guarantees each pilgrim will receive a five-litre can of Zamzam water officially upon arrival at their respective debarkation points in Indonesia,’ she said. Due to the ongoing heat in Mecca, pilgrims are advised to maintain physical health before departure. The Ministry recommends increased water intake, sufficient rest, and wearing head protection when outdoors. ‘We urge pilgrims, especially the elderly and high-risk groups, not to overexert themselves with additional rituals if physically unable. Let us maintain solidarity until all pilgrims return safely to Indonesia,’ Maria concluded. According to arrival schedules, Kloter 1 carrying pilgrims from Probolinggo Regency will land first at 20:25 WIB. Jaenal stated that commercial areas are being managed through more measured tenant arrangements considering pilgrims’ needs. Samsimar, an 82-year-old Hajj pilgrim from Batam, expressed longing for rendang and joked about matchmaking a hotel worker in Mecca with his child upon return. Minister of Hajj Mochamad Irfan Yusuf stated that a comprehensive evaluation of the 2026 Hajj operations will prioritise two critical aspects. The need for a structured system to manage proxy Hajj is increasingly urgent should the government impose stricter istitaah requirements for prospective pilgrims.