The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) has emphasized firm measures to crack down on all travel organizers and Hajj and Umrah Guidance Groups (KBIHU) operating in Indonesia. This policy was adopted in response to directives from President Prabowo Subianto to ensure that the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages are not used as business commodities that harm the public.
Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak, stated that the government will target all involved entities, ranging from travel agencies, PIHK, to KBIHU. This crackdown is being carried out to ensure that each institution returns to its respective function in accordance with regulations, where KBIHU must focus on worship guidance rather than engaging in deviant business practices.
The government revealed that there are still indications of fraudulent practices and unauthorized collection of pilgrims' funds by certain parties. In response, Kemenhaj plans to strengthen a more comprehensive supervision system. This step aims to guarantee protection for pilgrims, both in terms of service quality and the security of deposited funds.
The government's commitment to stopping the commodification of religion is expected to create a more transparent and accountable worship organization ecosystem. With strict oversight, it is hoped that no more citizens will be harmed by rogue organizers who focus solely on personal profit over the religious interests of the pilgrims.
