Kemenhaj Emphasizes that the Jamaah is Determined to Save Zamzam Water, the Jamaah's Koper will be Forced to Disassemble

Indonesian Hajj pilgrims prepare to return to Indonesia after carrying out all the series of Hajj rituals in Mecca. ANTARA/HO-Kemenhaj

JAKARTA - The government through the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) gives a stern warning to pilgrims who have begun to enter the repatriation phase to their homeland. One of the crucial rules that must be obeyed is the absolute prohibition of carrying zamzam water in the luggage or cabin luggage.

Kemenhan spokesperson Maria Assegaff emphasized that this rule is not just an appeal, but an international aviation safety regulation that cannot be negotiated. The audacity to smuggle the liquid into the suitcase will only trigger problems at the airport.

"Putting zamzam water into a suitcase is a violation of flight rules and can disrupt the smooth process of baggage inspection at the airport. Airport officials will forcibly open suitcases that are found to contain zamzam water," said Maria Assegaff in Jakarta, Tuesday.

Maria explained that pilgrims actually do not need to bother bringing zamzam water independently from Saudi Arabia. The government has guaranteed the right of the holy liquid for each pilgrim through an official channel that is much more practical and safe.

"Zamzam water has been prepared through official mechanisms. Each pilgrim will receive 1 gallon containing 5 liters at each debarkation. So, there is no need to bring zamzam in a suitcase," he added.

The phase of the return of Indonesian Hajj pilgrims has begun to roll. A total of 17 flight groups (clusters) have been recorded to have been sent back to the country on Monday through King Abdul Aziz International Airport, Jeddah.

In general, the Ministry of Religion gave high appreciation to all pilgrims who were considered cooperative and disciplined while in the Holy Land. Even so, the ministry still apologized if there were still gaps in the service during this year's hajj season.

Closing her statement, Maria appealed to pilgrims who were waiting for flight schedules to more carefully pack their luggage. Pilgrims are asked to move according to the schedule determined by the officers and ensure that important documents are not misplaced.

"Make sure your passport, ID card, personal medicine, important documents, and necessary items during the trip are well stored and easily accessible," he concluded.