Only Two Hajj Pilgrims from Malinau Regency Departed

Malinau, North Kalimantan (ANTARA) - Two residents of Malinau Regency, North Kalimantan Province, are being sent off to perform the Hajj pilgrimage in the 1447 Hijriah/2026 CE season after registering in 2014. The two prospective pilgrims from Malinau Regency are Hasmiah Amiruddin Kile, a resident of Malinau Kota Village, and Aries, a resident of Kuala Lapang RT 8. The Head of the Ministry of Religious Affairs Hajj Office in Malinau Regency, Umar Maya, stated on Sunday that based on Law No. 14 of 2025 on Hajj and Umrah Organisation regarding the waiting list, there is actually no pure quota for Malinau Regency pilgrims to be sent off in 2026-2027. “However, why are we sending two people? Because these two prospective pilgrims are fully paid reserves from 2025,” he said. “Actually, the pure quota for 2026-2027 is empty. Except for elderly priorities. Then in 2028, Malinau will send nine people, in 2029 there will be 24 people, and in 2030 it will slightly increase to 65 people,” he explained. Meanwhile, before departing for Tarakan City from the Malinau Regency Speedboat Harbour on Sunday, Hasmiah said she was happy to finally get the opportunity to go to the Holy Land at the age of 50 after waiting 12 years. “Alhamdulillah, happy to be able to depart, because it is indeed a call to go there. Hopefully everything goes smoothly and safely. Pray that the entire Hajj pilgrimage journey runs smoothly until returning to the homeland safely,” she said. Aries, the Malinau Regency prospective pilgrim who is currently 39 years old and works as a heavy vehicle driver, also expressed gratitude and joy at finally getting the chance to perform the Hajj after waiting since 2014. “Praise and gratitude, Alhamdulillah, very happy. Already waiting 12 years,” he said.