President Prabowo Orders Further Reduction of Hajj Waiting List

President Prabowo Subianto has ordered that the Hajj waiting list be further reduced, according to Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal, Chair of the House of Representatives’ (DPR) Hajj Oversight Team (Timwas) for 2026. In a meeting in Hambalang, Bogor, West Java, the President expressed serious concern over the long waiting times for the pilgrimage, which in some areas currently reach 30 to 40 years. “The President wants the Hajj waiting period, which is currently almost 30 to 40 years, to be reduced to around 26 years. He even stressed that acceleration efforts must continue so the waiting time can be even shorter,” Cucun stated.

Cucun also reported various improvements in the departure mechanism and immigration process, which are now considered more effective in anticipating the departure of illegal pilgrims. He noted that this year, around 17,000 regular pilgrims were able to enjoy five-star hotel accommodations located relatively close to the Grand Mosque (Masjidil Haram). “We heard direct testimonials from pilgrims who felt very grateful because they never imagined they could perform the Hajj with such excellent, comfortable facilities close to the place of worship,” he said.

Furthermore, the quality of catering services for pilgrims has also improved. Previously, the food menu was often criticised for being monotonous and the quality of the rice was a point of contention. Now, the menu variety has increased thanks to strengthened service contracts between the Ministry of Hajj and the service providers (syarikah). “Alhamdulillah, the menu is now more varied and many pilgrims have expressed satisfaction with the catering services provided,” he added.

Based on these achievements, the President requested that all positive results in the organisation of the Hajj be maintained and even enhanced, while any remaining shortcomings must be promptly addressed to optimise services for pilgrims. Cucun, who also serves as Deputy Speaker of the DPR, revealed that the President emphasised that the main key to the success of organising the Hajj lies in strong cross-sector communication and coordination.