Minister Of Religion Yaqut: Saudi Opens Hajj Only For Domestic And Expatriates

Illustration (Unsplash)

JAKARTA - Minister of Religion Yaqut Cholil Qoumas said the government of the kingdom of Saudi Arabia had announced the Hajj scheme of 1442 Hijriyah or 2021 only for its own nationals and foreigners residing in the country or expatriates.

He said the quota set by the government of the Arab kingdom was indeed more than last year, which was 60 thousand. However, this decision was taken because the COVID-19 pandemic has not yet been completed, so the safety and security of the hajj pilgrims are considered.

"The Saudi government has announced that the Hajj is only open to domestic and expatriates. By considering the safety and security of pilgrims from the threat of COVID-19 which has not subsided. As with the Indonesian government, the safety and security of pilgrims is always a major consideration," said Yaqut or who is familiarly called Gus. Yaqut in his written statement quoted on Saturday, June 12.

He appreciated the announcement made by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia regarding the implementation of the 2021 Hajj. Yaqut said this decision would certainly be a guideline for all Muslims in the world, including Indonesia.

"This decision shows that Saudi Arabia prioritizes the safety and mental health of the congregation. With this restriction, the health protocol will continue to work well while anticipating the potential for massive outbreaks of transmission," he said.

Furthermore, Gus Yaqut hopes that the decision that has been announced by the government of the kingdom of Saudi Arabia can end the polemic and hoax information regarding the cancellation of the departure of crowded Indonesian pilgrims on June 3.

Furthermore, he hopes that all parties can take lessons from this incident. Gus Yaqut advised prospective pilgrims to remain patient.

"Let's pray together that the pandemic will pass soon. Next year's Hajj can run normally and calmly again," he stressed.

"We will now focus on preparing for the 1443 Hijri pilgrimage. The Indonesian government will actively and early communicate with the Saudi government to prepare for the implementation of the hajj if the pilgrimage is reopened in 2022," concluded Gus Yaqut.