“As part of the DPR’s oversight role, we are responsible for conducting a thorough evaluation. We plan to propose the formation of a Hajj Special Committee in the House,” said Muslim Ayub, a member of the House of Representatives’ (DPR) Hajj Monitoring Team, in a statement issued on Tuesday.
He explained that the committee would assess various technical aspects of the Hajj, including catering, transportation, accommodation, and the overall service system provided to Indonesian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.
According to Ayub, the proposed committee aims to address numerous complaints from Indonesian pilgrims, particularly regarding catering, accommodations, and transportation during the peak of the pilgrimage.
“If we trace the journey from Mecca to Arafah, Arafah to Muzdalifah, and Muzdalifah to Mina, we’ve heard many voices of disappointment from the pilgrims,” he said.
He noted that some pilgrims were stranded for hours, with several reportedly spending an entire day inside vehicles without any clear information or guidance.
Ayub added that this situation had caused widespread dissatisfaction among pilgrims—something that must not be repeated in future Hajj seasons.
He also cited a specific incident in which a group of pilgrims from Aceh chose to walk seven kilometers from Muzdalifah to Mina due to long bus queues.
“That was an extraordinary effort, but it should not have happened if transportation had been managed properly,” he remarked.
He emphasized that these issues should serve as a starting point for systemic reforms in Hajj management and services.
“Hajj is not only about worship but also about the dignity and safety of the pilgrims. The government must provide a system that is both effective and humane,” he said.
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Translator: Melalusa, Kenzu
Editor: Anton Santoso
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