SURABAYA - Minister of Hajj and Umrah (Menhaj) Mochamad Irfan Yusuf emphasized that the regional heads were prohibited from becoming Regional Hajj Officers (PHD) in the 2026 Hajj operation to ensure professionalism and the optimization of services to pilgrims.
"This year, God willing, it must not be. We want to maximize the service to the pilgrims so that they can worship in peace," said Menhaj Irfan, Head of the Hajj Selection Office (PHD) 2022, at the Surabaya Hajj Office, East Java, Monday, January 10.
Gus Irfan, his nickname, explained that regional heads such as regents or mayors have a heavy structural responsibility so that it is feared that they cannot give full dedication if they are also acting as haji officers in the field.
According to him, the role of regional Hajj officers is very crucial because it requires full presence, readiness, and focus on accompanying pilgrims from their home areas to all the worshiping series in the Holy Land.
Therefore, this year's PHD selection is carried out strictly to ensure that the officers selected are truly ready, professional, and have a high commitment to serving the congregation.
"I once received a question from a regional head. However, the position is quite difficult if you have to provide maximum service to the congregation, while still having other obligations that cannot be left behind," said Menhaj.
He also reminded all participants of the selection that the status as a haji officer carries great consequences and responsibilities that must be carried out with integrity and discipline.
The government, he said, would not hesitate to impose firm sanctions on Hajj officers who were proven to have committed violations or negligence in carrying out their duties.
"If there is a violation or deviation in the performance of duties, there must be accountability, including the sanction of repatriation to the country before the Hajj operation ends," said Mochamad Irfan Yusuf.
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