BPIH Has Been Paid Off, 2,029 West Sumatran Hajj Pilgrims Leave For Makkah 2022

Illustration of the pilgrimage. (Antaranews)

W Sumatra - A total of 2,029 hajj candidates in West Sumatra (West Sumatra) will leave for Mecca in 2022. That number is 97 percent of the total W Sumatra congregation.

The Head of the Hajj and Umrah Organization (PHU) of the West Sumatra Ministry of Religion's Regional Office, Joben, said that those who departed this year were confirmed to have paid off the 2022 Hajj Travel Costs (BPIH).

"Until now, there are only 64 people who have not paid and confirmed their departure from a total of 2,093 people who will be departed," he said in Padang, quoted by Antara, Tuesday, May 17.

According to him, the congregations who confirmed the payment of 2,029 people included prospective reserve pilgrims who had signed a statement letter as attached to the Director General's decision No. 157 of 2022.

"Hopefully, within the next few days until May 20, 2022, all prospective hajj pilgrims have confirmed their payment. If they have made payment, they will automatically receive the COVID-19 vaccine, because one of the conditions for payment is the first dose of vaccine," he said.

He explained the requirements for confirmation of settlement and payment of regular hajj fees including, firstly, having paid off the 2020 Hajj travel costs.

Second, the maximum age is 65 years and 0 months as of June 30, 2022 according to the order of serving numbers.

Third, have never performed Hajj or have performed Hajj for at least 10 years since performing the last Hajj.

Fourth, at least 18 years old as of June 4, 2022 or already married. The five pilgrims have at least taken the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Meanwhile, Head of the Regional Office of the Ministry of Religion of West Sumatra, Helmi, appreciated the hajj candidates who had paid off and confirmed their departure.

"This proves that the prospective West Sumatran hajj pilgrims have a high spirit to carry out worship to the holy land. Hopefully this will be the first step for smoothness and success in carrying out the pilgrimage," he said.

The Regional Head of Regional Office asked the prospective West Sumatran hajj pilgrims to immediately complete the COVID-19 vaccine, because it is a condition that must be met in accordance with the provisions of the Saudi Arabian Government.

He also hopes and prays that West Sumatran pilgrims will continue to maintain their health, reduce mobility before leaving for the Holy Land, adhere to health protocols, wear masks, and reduce mobility.