Indonesia's Hajj Ministry Holds Disability‑Inclusion Audition in Saudi Arabia

Indonesia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Menhaj) met on 2 June 2026 with the National Disability Commission’s deputy chair Deka Kurniawan and representatives of disabled pilgrim organisations PPDI and ITMI at the Daker office in Madinah, Saudi Arabia. Minister Mochamad Irfan Yusuf (Gus Irfan) received the delegation to review the implementation of the “Haji Inklusif” 2026 programme and to discuss plans for the 2027 season.

The groups urged the ministry to draft a specific affirmative‑quota regulation for pilgrims with disabilities, citing long waiting lists and a lack of information that prevent many eligible candidates from travelling. They also highlighted practical issues such as wheelchair‑friendly transport, accessible hotel rooms, and disability‑sensitivity training for staff. Saudi authorities remain responsible for infrastructure improvements, but the Indonesian side pledged continued coordination.

The meeting reaffirmed the principle “Nothing About Us Without Us”, with Deka Kurniawan stating that involving disabled pilgrims is essential to uphold human‑rights standards and to ensure equitable treatment for vulnerable groups in the Hajj pilgrimage.