Indonesian Hajj Pilgrim Missing in Mecca Triggers Joint Search by Saudi and Indonesian Authorities

Muhammad Firdaus Ahlan, a pilgrim from the Jakarta Pondok Gede (JKG) group 27, was reported missing in Mecca on 15 May 2026 after leaving his hotel alone shortly before Friday prayers. CCTV footage showed him exiting the hotel at around 09:00 WAS wearing a plain white T‑shirt, a black sarong and only a hajj ring, without any identification documents.

The Saudi‑based Pilgrims’ Protection Agency (PPIH) quickly deployed multiple Linjam search teams to sweep the hotel, the Masjid al‑Haram precincts, surrounding streets and hospitals in Mecca and Jeddah. Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) spokesperson Ichsan Marsha confirmed coordination with Saudi police, expressed deep concern for Ahlan’s wife and family, and arranged psychological support for the spouse. Pilgrims were urged not to travel alone and to report any information to authorities. The coordinated search remains ongoing as of the latest briefings.