Indonesia, Saudi discuss tanazul scheme for enhanced Hajj experience

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesian Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar highlighted the plan to implement the tanazul scheme during his meeting with Minister of Hajj and Umrah of Saudi Arabia Tawfiq F. Al Rabiah.

"This scheme will help reduce (pilgrim) crowding in Mina. Considering the large number of Indonesian Hajj pilgrims, we believe that this scheme will be instrumental in addressing the density," he remarked, as cited from his office's statement here on Wednesday.

Under the tanazul scheme, Hajj pilgrims are permitted to perform mabit, or the practice of overnight stays, around the location designated for jamarat-- the devil stoning ritual, allowing them to return to their hotels without needing to stay in a tent in Mina.

Umar noted that the implementation of this scheme is expected to help reduce the number of tents in Mina, which has drawn criticism from Commission VIII of the House of Representatives (DPR) and its Hajj Supervisory Committee.

Furthermore, the minister highlighted that several countries have positively perceived the Hajj services provided by the Indonesian government, prompting them to learn from Indonesia's experiences.

During the meeting, he also appealed to the Saudi Arabian government to exempt Indonesian Hajj officers from the new entry fees for Arafah, Muzdalifah, and Mina, which will be enforced this year.

In addition to Minister Al Rabiah, Umar held a meeting with relevant stakeholders during his visit to Saudi Arabia.

"We have also appreciated the Saudi Arabian government for excellently devising Hajj-related programs. I believe the Indonesian government will use this as motivation to improve this year's Hajj services," he stated.