North Maluku Provincial Government Provides Additional Living Cost of Rp1.152 Billion to 768 Hajj Pilgrims

The North Maluku Provincial Government has provided an additional living cost of Rp1.152 billion to 768 prospective Hajj pilgrims from the province as a form of attention and support from the local government towards the smooth running of this year’s Hajj pilgrimage. “The additional living cost for these 768 prospective Hajj pilgrims is expected to help alleviate the needs of the pilgrims during their Hajj worship,” said North Maluku Governor Syerly Tjoanda Laos during the send-off of Hajj pilgrims from Cluster 13 originating from North Maluku at the Sudiang Hajj Hostel in Makassar, South Sulawesi, on Thursday. According to her, this additional living cost, beyond that provided by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj), serves as a commitment from the government to deliver the best services to the community. She also conveyed a message to the pilgrims that the Hajj journey is not merely a physical trip, but a spiritual journey to draw closer to the Almighty God. She invited all guests to always be grateful for the opportunity given. According to her, the moment of departure for Hajj is a precious opportunity to strengthen spiritual bonds and discover the meaning of closeness with the Creator. The Governor emphasised that services to Hajj pilgrims are not just an administrative responsibility, but also a humanitarian one. She expressed gratitude for having a deputy governor who is experienced and caring towards Hajj management in North Maluku. She added that her direct presence at the Makassar Hajj Hostel this year aims to ensure the readiness of all facilities for the pilgrims, from health checks, accommodation, meals, transportation, to other technical preparations. In addition, Governor Syerly also expressed her belief that the prayers offered by the pilgrims in the Holy Land hold great power, not only for each individual but also for the progress of the North Maluku region.