TIMES HONGKONG, JAKARTA – In the early hours of Sunday (12/5/2024) the Minister of Religious Affairs or Menag RI Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, presided over a poignant departure ceremony for 388 Indonesian hajj pilgrims from the inaugural flight group (kloter) at Jakarta's Embarkation - Pondok Gede (JKG-01), situated within the bustling Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (Soetta). Accompanying this pilgrimage were five dedicated officials from the contingent.

In attendance alongside the Minister were notable figures such as Vice Chairman of Commission VIII of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Tb Ace Hasan Syadzili, and the Director General of Hajj and Umrah Affairs (PHU), Hilman Latief, accompanied by several other esteemed officials, advisors, and experts from the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

During this solemn departure, Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas addressed the pilgrims, urging them to realign their intentions solely towards the spiritual journey ahead.

"Your purpose in journeying to the sacred land is rooted in devotion. I implore you not to dilute this intention with any other motives beyond the pilgrimage to the Holy Land," Gusmen earnestly conveyed to the pilgrims aboard the aircraft.

Furthermore, Minister Qoumas emphasized the imperative of safeguarding one's physical well-being, especially considering the disparate climate awaiting them in Saudi Arabia.

"The climate in the Holy Land can be unforgivingly hot. It is paramount that you maintain your physical health. Ensure you consume nourishing meals, stay hydrated, and supplement with vitamins," he advised with conviction.

Encouraging pilgrims to avail themselves of assistance without hesitation, Minister Qoumas assured them of the officials' unwavering commitment to serve.

"Whatever your needs may be, do not hesitate to reach out to our officials. They stand ready to assist you with genuine dedication," Gusmen reiterated.

Despite acknowledging the potential trials that lie ahead, Minister Qoumas exuded confidence in the pilgrims' ability to navigate the journey smoothly with the support of the officials.

"Once again, I emphasize the importance of prioritizing your physical well-being, as this pilgrimage is not without its physical demands. Yet, I am steadfast in my belief that each one of you is adequately prepared and resilient enough to fulfill this sacred duty in the holy land," he affirmed resolutely.

Before bidding farewell,Menag RI Qoumas offered heartfelt prayers for the pilgrims' attainment of 'haji mabrur' (accepted Hajj) status and invoked blessings for their safe passage. Additionally, he took a moment to extend warm greetings to elderly pilgrims, underscoring the Ministry of Religious Affairs' commitment to facilitating a compassionate and inclusive Hajj experience for all. (*)