Indonesia's Hajj Costs May Rise in 2027 Without Negotiation Breakthroughs

The cost of organizing the Hajj pilgrimage for 2027 may see an increase if the current calculation scheme is maintained, according to Marwan Dasopang, the head of the Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission VIII. He suggested that a reduction in the Hajj costs, known as Biaya Penyelenggaraan Ibadah Haji (BPIH), would only be feasible if there are significant breakthroughs in the pilgrimage's organization and successful negotiations with the Saudi Arabian government.

Dasopang stated that Commission VIII has not yet begun deliberations on the BPIH for the next Hajj season. He acknowledged concerns about the potential for costs to reach Rp90 million, emphasizing that discussions have not commenced. The commission head explained that if the government continues to use the same calculation method as last year, the cost of organizing the Hajj is almost certain to rise. He cautioned that forcing a cost reduction without proper adjustments could risk diminishing the quality of services provided to pilgrims.

To achieve cost efficiencies, Dasopang proposed optimizing Hajj flights to avoid empty return journeys. This would involve lobbying Saudi authorities to allow airlines to carry passengers or cargo on both departure and return flights, potentially lowering airfare costs. He also suggested that airlines could transport regular international passengers from Saudi terminals to increase aircraft occupancy and reduce operational expenses. These ideas are slated for discussion with the government, with a decision on the Hajj costs to be made after all efficiency options are thoroughly examined. Dasopang reiterated President Joko Widodo's repeated calls to ensure the Hajj costs do not unduly burden the public.

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Umpamanya, penerbangan mengantar jamaah, pulangnya kosong. Nah, kalau bisa meyakinkan pihak Saudi dibolehkan membawa pulang berupa barang maupun orang. Tentu cost penerbangan bisa lebih lebih murah.