The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) has taken a firm stance against the rampant abuse of the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages for private business interests. This enforcement step is a priority for the ministry to stop the commodification of religion, which has been deemed highly detrimental to the public.
Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak, revealed that this instruction is a follow-up to directives from President Prabowo Subianto. The main focus of the enforcement covers the entire ecosystem of organizers, ranging from travel agencies, Hajj and Umrah Guidance Groups (KBIHU), to Special Hajj Organizers (PIHK).
The government highlighted the role of KBIHU, which often deviates from its main function as a worship guidance institution to become a profit-oriented entity. Dahnil emphasized that every institution must return to the legal corridor and perform duties in accordance with applicable regulations to ensure spiritual and financial protection for pilgrims.
Furthermore, relevant authorities have detected indications of fraudulent practices, including the illegal collection of pilgrim funds by certain unscrupulous actors. In response, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah will implement strict supervision and a periodic evaluation system to ensure that all processes for organizing Hajj and Umrah run transparently and accountably in the future.
