Menhaj Says TNI-Polri Elements Strengthen Discipline of Civil Hajj Officers
SURABAYA - Minister of Hajj and Umrah (Menhaj) Mochamad Irfan Yusuf said the involvement of TNI and Polri elements in the structure of Hajj officers was directed to strengthen the discipline and readiness of civil Hajj officers in serving pilgrims.
"We need physical, discipline, and ability to read the field when on the field, that is the reason for adding TNI-Polri personnel," said Menhaj after opening the 2026 Regional Hajj Officer (PHD) Selection activity at the Surabaya Hajj Dormitory, East Java, Antara, Thursday, January 22.
Menhaj explained that the need arose from the results of the evaluation of the previous haj implementation which showed the high complexity of the officers' work, especially in crowded conditions and emergency conditions.
Based on the consideration of the incident, he continued, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) added the involvement of TNI and Polri personnel in the structure of Hajj officers in the 2026 implementation.
He said that the number of TNI and Polri personnel involved was 183 people or more than doubled compared to the previous year which was around 75 personnel.
According to him, the presence of TNI and Polri personnel is not only aimed at security aspects, but is also expected to be an example of a disciplined and measurable work pattern for other Hajj officers.
"And that is what we ask the TNI-Polri friends to convey to other Hajj officers who are on duty this year," said Gus Irfan, his nickname Menhaj Mochamad Irfan Yusuf.
In addition, he continued, TNI and Polri personnel are also equipped with public service capabilities so that they can directly assist pilgrims, especially the elderly and physically challenged, during the implementation of the hajj in Saudi Arabia.
With this approach, his party is optimistic that coordination between Hajj officers will be more solid.
"Of course, God willing, the quality of the pilgrims' service can be improved compared to the implementation of the hajj in previous years," said Menhaj Mochamad Irfan Yusuf.