Yusuf spoke after being sworn in by President Prabowo Subianto at the State Palace in Jakarta. He said the president had instructed him to improve services for all pilgrims.
“Whatever needs to be done, do it to give our Hajj pilgrims the best service,” Yusuf said, quoting Prabowo.
The appointment was made official through Presidential Decree No. 86P/2025, part of the latest Cabinet reshuffle. During the swearing-in, Yusuf pledged to uphold Indonesia’s constitution and laws, and to perform his duties responsibly.
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Yusuf brings experience to the role, having led the Hajj Organizing Agency (BP Haji) at the Ministry of Religious Affairs for the past 10 months.
In that position, he managed both the technical and financial aspects of the pilgrimage—from departure arrangements to pilgrims’ return home.
Born in Jombang, East Java, on April 24, 1962, Yusuf is the grandson of KH Hasyim Asy’ari, the founder of Indonesia’s largest Muslim organization, Nahdlatul Ulama (NU). He earned degrees from Brawijaya University and UIN Malang.
He was elected to parliament in the 2024 general election as a member of the Gerindra Party but stepped down after being appointed to lead BP Haji.
Outside government, Yusuf has held key roles in Islamic and community organizations, including NU and the Gerindra Party.
He is also involved in Islamic boarding schools and social programs.
With the establishment of the new Hajj and Umrah Ministry, Yusuf is now tasked with ensuring smoother, more affordable pilgrimages for millions of Indonesians each year.
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Translator: Andi Firdaus, Asri Mayang Sari
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
