Indonesia's Hajj: Millions Wait, 'War Ticket' Debate Ignites

The Indonesian government is grappling with an overwhelming demand for the Hajj pilgrimage, with a staggering 5.6 million people currently on the waiting list. This situation has sparked debate within the House of Representatives, particularly concerning the proposed shift from a long-standing waiting list system to a 'war ticket' or direct registration model. PDIP politician Selly Andriany Gantina has voiced strong opposition to the 'war ticket' idea, arguing it undermines the fairness for those who have patiently waited for years, some since 2008. She emphasizes that the current waiting list is a consequence of high demand exceeding Saudi Arabia's annual quota, not a flaw in the Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) established in 2017.

Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, revealed that President Prabowo Subianto has urged a revolution in Hajj penyelenggaraan, leading to discussions about alternative systems. One such idea is to abolish the waiting list and implement a direct registration or 'war ticket' system, which was previously used in Indonesia before the BPKH was formed. Under the old system, potential pilgrims would register and pay during a specific period, with priority given to those who could complete payment and secure a ticket first.

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Hari ini adalah momen yang tidak tepat untuk mengeluarkan statement war ticket. Dan kami berharap bahwa Kementerian Haji bisa meredam upaya untuk mengeluarkan statement war ticket.

While acknowledging the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah's efforts to reduce waiting times, Gantina urged caution against the 'war ticket' proposal. Instead, she advocated for diplomatic efforts between the Indonesian and Saudi governments to secure additional quotas. This approach, she believes, would be more equitable and respectful of the long-standing commitment of millions of Indonesian Muslims seeking to fulfill their religious obligation.

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Kalau ingin mengurangi masa tunggu yang lebih cepat, maka lakukanlah lobi-lobi politik secara baik antara pemerintah Indonesia dengan pemerintah Saudi.