Fined By Hundreds Of Thousands Of Rupiah, Ministry Of Religion Reminds Congregants Not To Smoke In Any Place

Head of the Public Relations, Data and Information Bureau of the Ministry of Religion, Akhmad Fauzin, at the Press Conference on the Implementation of Hajj 1444H/2023M in Jakarta,

JAKARTA - The Ministry of Religion reminds pilgrims not to smoke in any place. Because local authorities impose fines for those caught smoking in prohibited areas. "The congregation should really pay attention to the smoking ban area, especially in the markaziyah area which is the area where the congregation and the area around the Prophet's Mosque, Medina," said Head of the Ministry of Religion's Public Relations, Data and Information Bureau, Akhmad Fauzin at the Press Conference on the Implementation of Hajj in Jakarta, Antara, Monday, May 29. Akhmad Fauzin said violations of the smoking ban would be subject to a fine of 200 SAR or around Rp. 798,475 by the authorities. The Ministry of Religion also continues to remind pilgrims who will carry out pilgrimage activities in Medina to ensure that their hotel rooms are locked and leave the keys at hotel receptions. "Take enough money, and don't wear striking jewelry. Don't overspend shopping, because it will be a heavy burden," he said. Given the weather and hot sun, he said, make sure during pilgrimages carrying personal protective equipment such as umbrellas and hats so as not to be exposed to the sun's direct heat, carrying enough water to avoid dehydration. "Always coordinate with the head of the group, the head of the group, and their respective teams. Stay in groups, don't separate yourself from the group," he said. For elderly pilgrims, they are advised not to force themselves to perform sunnah if their physical condition does not allow congregational prayers at the Prophet's Mosque. Pilgrims can pray at the hotel, to avoid fatigue. "The government reminds pilgrims, especially the elderly, to maintain health and avoid outdoor activities. The weather in Medina is currently quite hot with temperatures reaching 39-40 degrees Celsius," he said.