"Providing services during the Hajj pilgrimage reflects the state's presence in the Holy Land. We are determined to ensure that Indonesian pilgrims receive safe, comfortable, and humane services," he noted in a statement quoted in Jakarta on Friday.
He highlighted the government's responsibility to properly prepare all necessities for Indonesians joining the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, including accommodation, consumption, transportation, healthcare, and protection.
The minister confirmed that his official visit follows an invitation from the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to hold a bilateral meeting on strengthening technical cooperation in organizing Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.
Yusuf said he plans to use the discussions to enhance services and standards, optimize technology in Hajj and Umrah systems, and strengthen operational coordination ahead of the 2026 Hajj season.
The Saudi government also expects the minister to participate in the Saudi-Indonesia Umrah Co-Exchange Forum, which he views as a strategic venue to explore potential partnerships with service providers from the Gulf state.
“This is important to ensure that Indonesian Hajj pilgrims have access to the best and most transparent services tailored to their needs, especially for the elderly and others with vulnerabilities,” Yusuf explained.
Furthermore, the minister said he intends to directly monitor accommodation, food, and transportation services in several locations across Mecca and Medina during the visit.
He stressed that the government recognizes the importance of pursuing Hajj service transformation beyond technical matters, underscoring the need to build an adaptive, responsive, and sustainable system.
The government is committed to professionalism, transparency, and pilgrim satisfaction, he affirmed.
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Translator: Asep F, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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