Saudi Arabia Has Abolished PCR And Quarantine Provisions, Ministry Of Religion Immediately Harmonizes Umrah Worship Policy

Director General of Hajj and Umrah Maintenance of the Ministry of Religion Hilman Latief. (Photo: Doc. Antara)

JAKARTA - The Director General of Hajj and Umrah at the Ministry of Religion, Hilman Latief, said that his party will immediately harmonize Umrah policies in line with Saudi Arabia's policy to eliminate the need for PCR and quarantine.

"We hope that the Ministry of Health and the National Disaster Prevention Agency (BNPB) can take alignment steps," Hilman said in a written statement quoted by Antara, Sunday, March 6.

Hilman added that the Ministry of Religion will talk to various parties regarding the reciprocal policy between the Saudi and Indonesian Governments for the Hajj and Umrah affairs.

"Regarding Saudi Arabia's decision to revoke most of its protocol policies, especially with regard to quarantine and PCR, there will also be consequences for the policy of organizing Umrah in Indonesia. I am optimistic that there will be a policy alignment soon. Moreover, Indonesia is currently also starting to make policy adjustments quarantine period," he said.

Hilman added that the one-door policy for the departure of Umrah pilgrims from the Hajj hostel will also be adjusted. According to Hilman, his party will immediately coordinate with BNPB and the Ministry of Health.

This is because the two institutions are authorized in technical policy settings related to preventing the spread of COVID-19. This coordination is needed considering that there are a number of provisions that must be compromised.

Hilman gave an example, there is no longer a requirement for quarantine and PCR checks when entering Saudi Arabia. According to him, this must be responded to by mutual recognition.

"So, don't get there, there is no need for quarantine, we are still forced to quarantine. Or don't get there, there is no need for PCR, we have to use PCR for departure, and so on," he explained.

The position of the Ministry of Religion, he added, is more in preparing the implementation of policies related to preventing COVID-19, including if Indonesia later has to revoke the one-door policy as it has been running so far.