Ministry Of Hajj Delays PPIH Selection In North Sumatra, West Sumatra, And Aceh Due To Disasters

Saudi Arabia's Hajj Organizers (PPIH) smelled the Red and White flag during the release and departure ceremony to the Holy Land at Pondok Gede Hajj Dormitory, Jakarta, Monday (28/4/2025). (ANTARA)

JAKARTA - The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) expressed deep concern over the floods and landslides that hit various areas in North Sumatra, West Sumatra, and Aceh. The impact of widespread disasters disrupts community activities, including the readiness for the selection of hajj administrators (PPIH) and PPIH Saudi Arabia in the three provinces.

In a coordination meeting with the leadership, Minister of Hajj and Umrah Irfan Yusuf gave directions for the implementation of a computer assisted test (CAT) for the selection of PPIH in North Sumatra, West Sumatra, and Aceh to be temporarily postponed. This postponement is applied to ensure that prospective selection participants can follow the process safely and properly, in line with post-disaster recovery efforts in their respective regions.

The minister, who is familiarly called Gus Irfan, expressed empathy and solidarity with the people who were affected by the disaster.

"The safety and calm of the citizens is a top priority. We postpone the implementation of CAT in North Sumatra, West Sumatra, and Aceh so that people focus on post-disaster safety and recovery. We pray for our brothers and sisters in the three provinces," he said, quoted from the official broadcast received Thursday, December 4.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Haj ensured that the implementation of CAT for PPIH cluster nationally would continue on December 4, 2025. Selection will be held simultaneously throughout Indonesia, located at the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Regencies/Cities throughout Indonesia. Postponement is only applied in three provinces affected by the floods and landslides in Sumatra.

The latest schedule for North Sumatra, West Sumatra and Aceh will be announced after further technical coordination is carried out and taking into account the development of the situation on the ground.

The Ministry of Haj also invites the public to remain vigilant, maintain safety, and help each other during the recovery period. The institution also prays for all residents to be given strength and protection in the midst of the flash floods and landslides that occurred in Sumatra.