The Ministry Of Religion Does Not Recommend Umrah Backpacker Style Because There Are Rules Of Worship That Must Be Obeyed

Minister of Religion Yaqut Cholil Qoumas when answering media questions in Jakarta, Friday. (ANTARA/Putri Hanifa)

JAKARTA - The government through the Ministry of Religion (Kemenag) has decided to prohibit Umrah backpackers on the grounds to protect Muslims who want to perform Umrah. Minister of Religion Yaqut Cholil Qoumas explained that Umrah travel is different from other tourist trips, because it involves worship rules that must be obeyed. This is if we go abroad we can do it ourselves. Where? To Europe, Japan, America, wherever we can do it ourselves, because there are no rules for traveling, but Umrah is different. There are rules of worship that must be met, ” Yaqut said when asked by the media in Jakarta, Antara, Friday, February 23. According to Yaqut, not all people understand these rules, so guidance and assistance are needed in carrying out Umrah worship. In addition, there are many practical aspects that also need to be considered, such as booking hotels and food which may have differences with Indonesian culinary culture. This raises concerns about an unsatisfactory experience for pilgrims who are unfamiliar with the environment and procedures in Umrah destination countries. "“ Well, not all of our people understand all of that, so a guide is needed. Who guides them in carrying out Umrah?" he said. Therefore, the government wants Umrah pilgrims to get adequate assistance and guidance from the professional Umrah travel agency. Thus, it is hoped that each congregation can carry out Umrah worship smoothly and in accordance with applicable regulations. The ban on backpacker Umrah is expected to minimize risks and ensure the safety and comfort of Muslims who carry out Umrah.

“ Many things have become the government's consideration why it is better to avoid Umrah backpackers. So there are Umrah travel bureaus that will be ready to help people to be able to carry out Umrah well, ” Yaqut explained.