Umrah pilgrims boo Hanania Travel CEO over phased refund offer

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – Tensions rose during a mediation session between Hanania Travel and prospective Umrah pilgrims when Managing Director Ahmad Syah Farhan proposed several resolution options for thousands of pilgrims unable to travel to Mecca. The incident occurred when Farhan met hundreds of pilgrims at Hanania Travel’s headquarters in Mal Kota Kasablanka office building, South Jakarta, on Thursday, 28 May 2026.

According to video footage uploaded by Threads account @dwiutariri, Farhan apologised and explained the company’s inability to send pilgrims, particularly for June and July 2026 departures. He stated his presence was an act of good faith and proof he was not evading responsibility.

During the mediation, Farhan offered to reschedule departures over the next six months with price adjustments. “First option is rescheduling departures gradually over the next six months with adjusted pricing,” he said. He added that the price adjustments were necessary as Hanania Travel would use joint operations with other travel agencies to send pilgrims.

However, tensions escalated when Farhan proposed a second option: refunds in installments over a maximum of two years. “Those wanting refunds will receive them in installments over up to two years,” he stated. This was met with boos and rejections from the pilgrims present. “No way!” several pilgrims shouted in unison.

After facing strong backlash, a Hanania Travel representative attempted to calm the angry crowd. “Personally, God willing, I am prepared to face even the worst consequences. I sincerely apologise for this inconvenience,” Farhan concluded.

Despite apologies and promises to resolve the issue, victims rejected all proposed options. They have since taken Farhan to Polda Metro Jaya for legal proceedings over alleged fraud and embezzlement, with total losses estimated at Rp 60 billion.