TIMES SINGAPORE, MAKKAH – The Hajj 2024 is being hailed as an exceptional experience by many Indonesian pilgrims, thanks to the enhanced services provided by the Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag RI). Pilgrims Syifa (32) and her husband Ainun Naim (34) from Surabaya shared their praise for the excellent services that made their pilgrimage feel like a VIP experience.

Exceptional Services for Pilgrims

Syifa and Ainun Naim highlighted several aspects of the services that stood out to them:

1. 24-Hour Transportation

The pilgrims benefited from the free, around-the-clock bus service, known as the bus salawat, facilitating easy travel between their accommodations and Masjidil Haram.

Catering Pilgrims received three meals a day with a variety of hygienic menu options, ensuring they were well-fed throughout their stay.

2. Laundry Facilities

Free washing machines were available, adding to the convenience and comfort of the pilgrims.

3. Hotel Services

The hotels provided excellent services, including responsive staff and regular visits from healthcare personnel to ensure the well-being of all pilgrims, particularly the elderly.

4. Health Services

Daily health checks in the hotels ensured that pilgrims' health was monitored, making the experience worry-free.

5. Special Care for Elderly Pilgrims

Dedicated staff assisted elderly pilgrims and those with special needs in their daily activities, ensuring they could focus on their religious duties.

A Comfortable Stay

Syifa mentioned how previous pilgrims had often found the Hajj challenging due to the need to handle all tasks independently, from cooking to walking long distances. However, with the new facilities, these challenges have been greatly reduced. The availability of regular meals, abundant beverages, and modern amenities like washing machines allowed pilgrims to devote themselves fully to their religious obligations without the stress of managing daily chores.

"We really feel pampered here. Eating three times a day, abundant drinks, and even free washing machines. So, we just focus on worship because everything is facilitated," Syifa stated. 

Having registered for the Hajj since 2012, Syifa advised younger people to register early if they have the financial means. This early registration can help avoid the long waiting times and allow for a more manageable experience during the pilgrimage.

Comprehensive Facilities by Kemenag RI

The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs has prepared several facilities to enhance the Hajj experience in 2024:

• Free Transportation: Continuous bus service to and from Masjidil Haram.
• Catering Services: Three meals per day and abundant beverages.
• Accommodation: Hotels equipped with free laundry services, cleanliness, and health facilities.
• Health Services: Daily health checks by visiting health professionals.
• Elderly Care: Special assistance for elderly pilgrims and those with specific needs.
• Facilities in Arafah and Mina: Comfortable tents with air conditioning, adequate bedding, and sufficient food supplies.

These comprehensive services aim to ensure that pilgrims can focus on their spiritual journey, making the Hajj 2024 an enriching and memorable experience. (*)