Saudi Arabia commends Indonesia's Hajj management transformation on the right track

Sudarto, Secretary General of DPP SAHI (Silaturrahmi Haji dan Umrah Indonesia), welcomed the appreciation expressed by Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, regarding Indonesia’s 2026 Hajj management.

He said the direct acknowledgment from the Saudi government is a significant indicator that Indonesia’s Hajj management transformation has yielded tangible results and attracted international attention.

“The appreciation from the Saudi government is not merely diplomatic praise but a recognition of the hard work, system improvements, enhanced coordination, and dedication of all personnel involved in serving Indonesian pilgrims. This is a source of national pride,” he said.

As Secretary General of DPP SAHI, an organisation representing various Hajj and Umrah stakeholders, Gus Sudarto noted that this success demonstrates Indonesia’s growing ability to deliver professional, measurable, and pilgrim-focused services.

He explained that over recent years, improvements have been made in operational management, service digitalisation, staff quality enhancement, and strengthened coordination between the Indonesian and Saudi governments.

“We have observed significant changes. When the Saudi Hajj Minister referred to a ‘remarkable leap’ in Indonesia’s Hajj management, this is undoubtedly based on objectively measurable service indicators on the ground,” he said.

Gus Sudarto added that this achievement should be used as a momentum to further enhance Hajj services in the coming years. He noted that Hajj management challenges will grow more complex with increasing pilgrim numbers and evolving technology and international regulations.

“This achievement should not lead to complacency. Rather, it is a trust that must be upheld. Existing service standards must continue to be improved to ensure Indonesian pilgrims receive the best possible care from departure to return home,” he stressed.

Furthermore, SAHI praised the synergy between Indonesia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Harmonious relations and intensive communication are deemed crucial in facilitating smooth services for Indonesian pilgrims in the Holy Land.