"Why is BPKH campaigning for younger people to (plan) Hajj? If we consider the waiting period after registering, ages 40 or 50 are spiritually and physically mature," BPKH executive director Fadlul Imansyah explained, according to a statement released in Jakarta on Friday.
He made the remarks at a talk show on "Plan Your Future for Hajj from an Early Age" during the Indonesian Sharia Economic Festival (ISEF) 2024 at JCC Jakarta.
He noted that the current waiting period for Hajj extends to decades, making it difficult for people to plan for Hajj when approaching old age.
According to Imansyah, the Hajj is a form of physical worship, so it requires pilgrims to be in prime health so that they can participate fully in the entire series of worship activities and get clearance for the pilgrimage.
Fadlul encouraged young people, especially prospective grooms, to start saving early so they can offer the initial Hajj deposit as dowry for their partners.
"Typically, when people get married, usually dowry with a set of prayer tools. Now, let's change that to an initial Hajj deposit. Just imagine if Indonesian couples start thinking about Hajj deposits at the age of 25, it means their mindset is physically and spiritually good," he said.
He explained that the current minimum initial deposit required to go on Hajj is Rp25 million (US$1.588,4). According to him, young people who save money as dowry for Hajj can have better careers and fortunes.
"So, if their careers and fortunes are good, then their morals are also good. Let's make the initial Hajj deposit a dowry for marriage," he reiterated.
To provide a sense of security to the public, the management of Hajj funds at BPKH is conducted transparently, he added.
People can access BPKH's financial reports, which are audited by the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK), via the BPKH website and social media.
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Translator: Kuntum Khaira Riswan
Editor: Arie Novarina
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