Indonesia to Mandate Health Education for Hajj Pilgrims from 2027

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs is introducing a mandatory health education program for Hajj pilgrims beginning in 2027. This initiative aims to ensure pilgrims are adequately prepared physically for their journey to the holy land. The program, termed "manasik kesehatan," will provide guidance and assistance to pilgrims to ensure their health.

This policy stems from an evaluation of the 2026 Hajj season, which saw a significant decrease in Indonesian pilgrim deaths in Saudi Arabia, falling to around 360 from approximately 447 the previous year. Despite this improvement, the ministry intends to further enhance pilgrim safety by implementing stricter health screenings.

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Starting next year, 2027, we are introducing the term health manasik. Pilgrims who will depart in 2027 will be accompanied and assisted in their health manasik process to ensure they are healthy.

Starting in 2027, prospective pilgrims who do not meet the health requirements or cannot independently perform their religious duties may face difficulties in being approved for the Hajj. The ministry emphasizes a more rigorous approach to health examinations and the assessment of physical capability, known as "istitha’ah kesehatan." This measure underscores the commitment to pilgrim well-being and the integrity of the Hajj pilgrimage.

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We will be stricter regarding health examinations and health istitha’ah. Pilgrims who are not healthy and cannot perform their worship activities independently will likely have difficulty departing.