"Our hope is to determine the BPIH value in November, so that Indonesian prospective Hajj pilgrims can immediately pay their share and we can promptly begin all preparatory steps," Hajj and Umrah Minister Mochammad Irfan Yusuf stated.
Speaking in Jakarta on Wednesday, he noted that Indonesia had secured a Hajj quota of 221 thousand pilgrims for 2026, the same as this year’s allocation. The quota consists of 203,320 regular pilgrims and 17,680 special pilgrims.
The minister added that, in line with President Prabowo Subianto’s directive, the ministry would seek to reduce Hajj costs by reviewing expense components and consulting with the House of Representatives (DPR).
He revealed that inefficient procurement of at least 10 goods and services was suspected of contributing to the relatively high costs.
"In principle, we will address the BPIH according to Mr. President's order, and we are keen to discuss viable ways to reduce it with the DPR," Yusuf remarked.
On provincial Hajj quotas, he underlined the importance of adhering to applicable laws, noting that the Indonesian Audit Board (BPK) had frequently raised issues regarding the allocation method.
"The determination of quotas must be based on waiting lists to ensure fairness. Going forward, no regions will have prospective pilgrims waiting for 48 years," he said, adding that the government aims to bring the national average waiting period to 26 years.
Yusuf also assured that the quota for special pilgrims would remain eight percent of the total, with a maximum waiting time of five years.
"Those in the special scheme will still be required to queue for up to five years. They cannot depart immediately," he affirmed.
He further stressed that the government and DPR are committed to ensuring fairness in the organization of Hajj for all citizens.
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Translator: Asep F, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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