Indonesia Pushes for Local Food Supplies and Tanazul Scheme in Hajj Logistics

Indonesia’s Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, called for greater use of Indonesian food products—such as coconut milk, pangasius fish, anchovies and native spices—in the catering supply chain for the Saudi‑based Hajj pilgrimage. He noted that many of these items are currently sourced through third‑party countries and argued that direct contracts with Indonesian suppliers could open new markets and support domestic agriculture, fisheries and small‑medium enterprises. Logistics costs have risen due to regional geopolitical tensions, and the ministry is preparing cooperation schemes to embed Indonesian commodities in future catering contracts while maintaining health and safety standards.

In parallel, Deputy Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak reported that Saudi authorities are considering a "tanazul" scheme that could allow up to 50% of Indonesian pilgrims to return to hotels in Mecca earlier, easing the chronic overcrowding in Mina’s limited 12.6‑hectare tent area. Technical and operational calculations are being finalised, and the two ministries will work closely to implement the plan without compromising the rites. The discussion also highlighted Saudi appreciation for recent Indonesian reforms in hajj management, health eligibility checks and financial transparency under President Prabowo Subianto.