"We would like to remind all Hajj pilgrims to carefully mind (the rules applicable in) non-smoking areas, especially those located in the markaziyah zone, which serves as the pilgrims' lodging zone, and ones in the vicinity of the Prophet's Mosque, Medina," the ministry's Head of Public Relations, Data, and Information Bureau Akhmad Fauzin stated during a press conference in Jakarta, Monday.
Failure to comply with the smoking prohibition applicable in such areas will attract punishment in the form of a fine of SAR200, or equivalent to Rp798,475 (around US$53), he emphasized.
The ministry also appealed to pilgrims keen to conduct pilgrimage activities in Medina to ensure that the hotel doors are locked and to leave the keys at the hotel reception.
"Bring a moderate amount of money and refrain from wearing obtrusive jewelry. Mind your shopping loads, as they may cause excessive luggage weight," he stated.
To protect Hajj pilgrims from direct heat of the sun, he called on them to bring personal protective equipment, such as umbrellas and hats, and enough water to prevent them from being dehydrated.
"Maintain coordination with your respective heads of groups, entourages, and teams. Stay in a group, and do not stray away from your entourage," he remarked.
Fauzin also appealed to elderly pilgrims to not push themselves to perform sunnah worship in the Prophet's Mosque if they find themselves in a weak physical condition. Pilgrims can still perform prayers at the hotel to prevent exhaustion, he stated.
"The government has prompted pilgrims, especially those who belong to the elderly group, to pay close attention to their health conditions and refrain from conducting outdoor activities. Currently, Medina City is hit by hot weather, with temperatures reaching 39-40 degrees Celsius," he noted.
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Translator: Asep Firmansyah, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Sri Haryati
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