10 Indonesian Hajj Pilgrims Die; Ministry Focuses on Health Services
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- As of May 5, 2026, 10 Indonesian Hajj pilgrims have died during the 2026 Hajj season.
- The Ministry of Hajj is focusing on strengthening health services and pilgrim protection amidst high temperatures.
- Over 97,000 pilgrims have departed Indonesia, with most arriving in Madinah, while health services have treated over 12,000 pilgrims.
The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj (Kemenhaj) has reported that the number of Indonesian pilgrims who have passed away during the 2026 Hajj season has reached 10. The latest reported death was Aen Soleh Salimar from the JKS 05 cluster, originating from Bogor Regency, who passed away on May 5, 2026. The government, through its spokesperson Suci Annisa, expressed deep condolences and reiterated its commitment to ensuring optimal health services for all pilgrims.
We express our deepest condolences, the government will continue to ensure that health services run optimally.
In the face of challenging weather conditions in Madinah and Makkah, with temperatures soaring between 37-39 degrees Celsius, Kemenhaj is prioritizing pilgrim well-being. The ministry has advised pilgrims to manage their activities according to their physical capacity, ensure adequate rest, and maintain sufficient fluid intake. This advisory is crucial for preventing heat-related illnesses and ensuring pilgrims can complete their spiritual journey.
We remind pilgrims to regulate activities according to their abilities, get enough rest, and maintain fluid intake.
Health services have been robust, with 12,725 pilgrims receiving outpatient care. Additionally, 144 pilgrims were referred to the Indonesian Hajj Health Clinic (KKHI), and 232 were sent to Saudi Arabian hospitals. Currently, 70 pilgrims remain under medical care. The smooth operational process for pilgrim departures and movements is a testament to the meticulous planning and execution by the Indonesian government.
We ensure that every pilgrim receives safe, comfortable, and orderly services from departure to worship in the Holy Land.
Beyond health services, the government is also enhancing religious guidance and pilgrim protection. The Nusuk application is being promoted for pilgrims to access services like visiting Raudhah, with 29,497 pilgrims already having secured permits. Furthermore, the Kawal Haji application serves as a digital complaint channel, allowing pilgrims to report issues in real-time, ensuring responsiveness and accountability in service delivery. This comprehensive approach reflects Indonesia's dedication to providing a safe, comfortable, and organized Hajj experience for its citizens.
We invite pilgrims and families to actively utilize this application so that services become more responsive and accountable.
Originally published by Tempo in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.