Indonesia's Hajj management draws praise from Saudi Arabia

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Saudi Arabian government lauded Indonesia for its management of Hajj services, recognizing the Indonesian government's efforts as both humane and professional, Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar stated.

In a statement received from his ministry here on Friday, Umar quoted Saudi Arabian Hajj and Umrah Minister Tawfiq F. Al Rabiah as saying that Indonesia's exemplary Hajj services have positively influenced the implementation of the Hajj pilgrimage on a global scale.

"The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has praised the Indonesian government, stating that we always consider not only the interests of our own pilgrims but also global Hajj affairs in general while promoting a humane Hajj approach," he remarked.

The minister explained that such an approach is oriented toward satisfactory Hajj experiences.

"Indonesia has been greatly appreciated for its commitment to the common good," he added.

He further remarked that the Saudi Arabian government had also commended Indonesia's professionalism in implementing Hajj services.

"Thank God, Indonesia is perceived as a highly professional country, owing to our willingness to directly inspect, re-evaluate, improve, and discuss our Hajj services," he highlighted.

Umar then underscored that the Indonesian government is indeed committed to offering peaceful, safe, and comfortable Hajj services.

On that note, the minister called on his ranks at the Ministry of Religious Affairs to exert all-out efforts to proffer the finest services and experiences to all Indonesian Hajj pilgrims.

"This year's Hajj pilgrimage will be the final one managed by the Religious Affairs Ministry. Hence, we are aiming for a favorable ending. Our mission is to put a smile on Indonesian pilgrims' faces," he emphasized.

This statement refers to the government's plan to delegate the Hajj managing task to the Hajj Organizing Agency (BPH) next year.