Yogyakarta's Special Hajj Program Sees Rising Demand Amidst Crackdown on Illegal Departures

Interest in Yogyakarta's special Hajj program is growing, prompting the Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenhaj) DIY to enhance its monitoring of non-procedural Hajj practices. The aim is to protect prospective pilgrims from fraudulent offers of illegal departures.

Silvia Rosetti, acting head of Kemenhaj DIY, noted that the special Hajj program sees increasing demand annually, largely due to its perceived superior service quality compared to the regular Hajj. "Special Hajj, its enthusiasts are increasing year by year. Because indeed in terms of service, special Hajj is better than regular Hajj," she stated.

The special Hajj program is exclusively managed by officially licensed Special Hajj Organizers (PIHK) using the government's Hajj quota. Kemenhaj DIY reports that these licensed organizers in the region have been adhering to government standards and regulations. However, the ministry urges the public to verify the legality and track record of any travel agency before committing.

To combat illegal departures, Kemenhaj DIY is intensifying its crackdown on non-procedural Hajj. This follows the discovery of Indonesian citizens attempting to perform Hajj using invalid visas. Saudi Arabia imposes severe penalties for illegal Hajj pilgrims, including deportation, a ban from re-entry, and fines up to 20,000 riyals. "We ask the public not to be tempted by cheap prices or promises of quick departure. All Hajj pilgrimage organizations have rules that must be followed," Rosetti advised.