Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has reaffirmed its commitment to providing the best possible services for Indonesian pilgrims, with a focus on inclusivity and fairness for the elderly, women and people with disabilities.
Director General of Hajj and Umrah Implementation Puji Raharjo said the commitment is reflected in ongoing efforts to incorporate inclusive principles into regulatory adjustments.
“We recognize the Hajj pilgrimage as an inclusive activity that does not revolve solely around men; it must equally support elderly citizens, persons with disabilities and women,” he said in a statement received in Jakarta on Saturday.
Raharjo emphasized that the government places safety, humanity and accessibility at the core of its measures to ensure inclusive pilgrimage services for all.
“Our ministry continues to prioritize and strengthen coordination and collaboration with organizations and institutions concerned with disabilities to provide equal treatment and more inclusive Hajj services,” he said.
Chairperson of the National Commission for People with Disabilities, Dante Rigmalia, praised the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah for being responsive to various inputs and recommendations regarding pilgrimage services for people with disabilities.
“The Hajj Ministry promptly followed up on the solutions we proposed,” she said, noting that the ministry also received praise from the Saudi Arabian government for its services in Mecca during the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.
She also lauded the ministry’s tangible efforts to improve and customize food services for elderly and disabled pilgrims.
“This reflects attention to the special needs of pilgrims,” she added.
However, Rigmalia noted that further improvements are still needed in assistance for pilgrims with disabilities.
“For example, it is crucial to ensure that pilgrims in wheelchairs do not get separated from their companions, as this could affect their comfort and safety,” she said.
