Temperatures In Medina Up To 41 Degrees Celsius, Elderly Congregants Asked To Limit Outdoor Activities

Hajj participants preparing to leave for Saudi Arabia, Wednesday (24/5/2023). (ANTARAPHOTO/Wahyu Putro)

JAKARTA - The Ministry of Religion appealed to the elderly pilgrims to limit activities outside the room, considering that the weather in Medina was hot with temperatures reaching 41 degrees Celsius.

"The government urges the congregation, especially the elderly, to maintain health and avoid outdoor activities," said Head of the Public Relations, Data and Information Bureau of the Ministry of Religion, Akhmad Fauzin, quoted by ANTARA, Wednesday, May 24.

Akhmad said pilgrims who have arrived in Saudi Arabia should maintain stamina and physicality, so that when undergoing a series of mandatory worships in excellent health conditions.

Elderly pilgrims are also reminded not to force themselves to perform sunnah worship at the Prophet's Mosque if their physical condition is not possible

"Don't force yourself if the physical condition is not possible to participate in congregational prayers at the Prophet's Mosque. Pilgrims can also perform prayers at the boarding house, to avoid fatigue," he said.

Meanwhile, for other congregants who want to worship at the Prophet's Mosque, the Ministry of Religion issues a number of guidelines. First, take notes on names and address numbers before leaving for the Prophet's Mosque.

Second, inform and record the contact number of the Hajj Organizing Officer (PPIH) at the boarding house. Third, wear an identification identity, especially a congregational bracelet and don't exchange bracelets with others.

Fourth, go and go home in groups. Fifth, use a moisturizer and lips to avoid irritation due to hot weather. Sixth, always use footwear and socks to avoid limping feet.

"If you lose footwear, don't force yourself to return to the hotel without sandals during the day. Because the roads you pass are very hot. Call the officers around the congregation," said Akhmad.

Seventh, always carry and drink mineral water regularly to avoid dehydration. Eighth, adjust the rhythm of departure and return from the boarding house to the Prophet's Mosque, and vice versa, to avoid accumulation of elevator queues at the boarding house.

"To all Indonesian pilgrims, do not hesitate to ask the officers for help. Since the embarkation, during the flight, to the Holy Land later, if you have difficulties and need help, immediately contact Indonesian Hajj officers," he said.