Indonesia to enforce stricter health standards for Hajj pilgrims starting 2027

Indonesia’s House Commission VIII is urging the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to adopt a mandatory health‑manasik program for all pilgrims beginning with the 2027 season. The proposal, supported by parliament, calls for comprehensive medical checks, nutrition and fitness guidance, and early treatment of chronic conditions to ensure “istithaah” – the physical ability to perform the rites safely. Legislator Mahdalena emphasized that the program must go beyond paperwork and become a real filter to lower emergency incidents and deaths among Indonesian pilgrims.

At the same time, the ministry’s 2026 Hajj evaluation highlighted several service improvements, including a fairer quota distribution among provinces, a reduction of pilgrimage fees by roughly Rp2 million (US$111), and the introduction of Nusuk cards issued before departure. Mortality among pilgrims fell about 25 % compared with the previous year, yet the death toll of around 350 remains a concern. Officials identified health preparedness and conditions in Mina, Saudi Arabia, as key challenges and plan further measures, staff training, and health‑istitha’ah initiatives for future seasons.