Indonesia's Hajj oversight team urges formal agency for badal haji and better services for pilgrims

The House of Representatives' Hajj Oversight Team (Timwas) has asked the government to create a dedicated agency under the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to manage and regulate the practice of "badal haji" (substitute pilgrimage). Chair Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal said a formal institution would clarify who can perform the substitution, who receives it and ensure full control, especially if stricter health screenings raise the number of pilgrims needing replacement.

Timwas also called for optimized services for the second wave of Indonesian pilgrims arriving in Madinah. Member Muhammad Abdul Aziz highlighted the need for smooth transport, adequate hotel arrangements and timely access to religious sites, noting the pilgrims’ higher fatigue after completing the rites in Mecca. He stressed coordination among the Ministry of Religious Affairs, travel operators and Saudi authorities to avoid delays and improve accommodation conditions.