The Importance of JKN for a Peaceful Hajj Pilgrimage

Karmijah, a 65-year-old resident of Tuban, is preparing for her upcoming Hajj pilgrimage with a focus on both spiritual and physical readiness. She emphasises that maintaining active participation in the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme is a vital component of her preparations. According to Karmijah, ensuring health coverage is essential because the physical demands of the pilgrimage, including extreme weather changes and intense religious activities, require peak physical condition.

She noted that the costs of medical treatment without insurance could pose a significant financial burden. “After returning from Hajj, the body often undergoes adjustments due to weather changes and physical activity. With JKN, I do not need to worry about medical costs in my home country if I fall ill,” she stated. She added that the benefits of JKN have already been felt by her and her family, making the membership highly worthwhile.

Beyond her own coverage, Karmijah has ensured that all her family members are registered JKN participants. This allows her to focus on her worship without the anxiety of potential health issues facing her family while she is away for an extended period. She believes that being a JKN participant is not just a personal necessity but a form of ‘gotong royong’ (mutual cooperation), as the contributions paid by participants help support others in need of healthcare.

Karmijah also stressed the importance of ensuring that membership remains active and free of any premium arrears. She utilises digital services such as the PANDAWA WhatsApp service and the Mobile JKN application to manage her status. She encourages other prospective pilgrims to prioritise their JKN membership to ensure a peaceful, focused, and blessed pilgrimage experience.