Indonesian Ulema Council calls for Hajj financing to prioritize affordability

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) is advocating for a return to the core principle that the Hajj pilgrimage should be undertaken only by those who are financially capable.

KH Cholil Nafis, the Deputy Chairman of MUI, stated that the Hajj obligation, known as 'manista'a ilaihi sabila,' applies to Muslims who can afford the journey. This stance comes in response to the government's proposed Hajj financing scheme for the 2027 season.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has proposed a Hajj operational cost (BPIH) of Rp107.34 million per person for 2027, a significant increase from the Rp87.4 million charged in the previous year. To manage the direct costs for pilgrims, the ministry suggested a financing model where 60 percent of the cost would come from the investment returns managed by the Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH), with the remaining 40 percent paid directly by the pilgrims.

Kiai Cholil clarified that the term 'subsidy' is inaccurate for Hajj costs. He explained that the funds used are not from the state budget but from the investment growth of pilgrims' initial deposits during their waiting period. He believes the current distribution of these investment returns needs review to ensure fairness for all prospective pilgrims, including those still awaiting their turn.