Deputy Minister Urges Hajj Organizers to Embrace 'Travel Beyond Profit' Spirit

Indonesian Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs, Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak, has called on organizers of Hajj and Umrah pilgrimage services to move beyond a purely profit-driven model. Speaking at the National Working Meeting III of the Indonesian Association of Hajj and Umrah Entrepreneurs (Asphirasi), Simanjuntak advocated for a "travel beyond profit" approach.

He urged businesses in the sector to build their operations on a foundation of trust, integrity, professionalism, and innovation. This approach, he explained, should aim to provide broad benefits to pilgrims and the wider community, underscoring that the trust of pilgrims is a sacred mandate that must be protected. Simanjuntak was accompanied by Director General of Hajj Services Rear Admiral (Ret.) Ian Heriyawan and Director of Special Hajj Services Tuti Rianingru.

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The trust of pilgrims is a mandate that must be maintained.

Simanjuntak further emphasized the critical need for good corporate governance within these organizations. He advised them to establish sound and accountable management practices, ensuring that all service processes are conducted professionally and responsibly. Beyond delivering excellent service, he stated, Hajj and Umrah organizers have a duty to equip pilgrims with adequate knowledge through high-quality guidance, religious instruction (manasik), and education.

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Besides providing the best service, Hajj and Umrah organizers also have a responsibility to equip pilgrims with adequate knowledge through quality guidance, manasik, and education.