“We want to ensure that everyone entering the Ministry of Hajj has no history of corruption,” Dahnil stated during a coordination meeting for the establishment of the Regional Office of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Batam, Riau Islands, on Friday.
He explained that the upcoming revision of the Hajj Law will trigger a significant transfer of assets and personnel from other ministries, including the Ministry of Religious Affairs and the Ministry of Health, to the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
“All staff involved in Hajj administration will be reassigned to our ministry. However, we are conducting thorough assessments and background checks,” he said.
The assessments will evaluate professional competency, while the screenings—conducted in collaboration with the Attorney General’s Office and the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK)—will ensure integrity and accountability.
The asset transfer includes Hajj dormitories and offices built using Hajj funds across Indonesia.
To oversee this process, a joint Task Force has been formed with the Ministry of Religious Affairs to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
“With this consolidation, we aim to have the regional office in the Riau Islands, along with district and city-level offices, fully operational by October,” Dahnil added.
Preparations for the 2026/1447 Hijri Hajj are also underway. These include the appointment of syarikah (partnership) managers, pilgrim registration, catering arrangements, health protocol management, and worship coordination.
As for the proposed Hajj Village development, Dahnil noted that negotiations are still ongoing.
“The process will continue, but it will take time due to the number of stakeholders involved. It is being handled directly by Danantara (Daya Anagata Nusantara),” he concluded.
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Translator: Yoanita Hastryka Djohan
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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