Support Teams Ready to Boost Hajj Services for Indonesian Pilgrims in Saudi Arabia

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - As Indonesia prepares for the departure of its first Hajj pilgrims this season, 423 support personnel under the Hajj Organizing Committee (PPIH) in Saudi Arabia have been mobilized to reinforce services and ensure smooth operations, particularly in Madinah and at the airport.

The support staff -- comprising local Indonesian workers and students -- recently completed technical training to sharpen their readiness. Their duties range from welcoming pilgrims at the airport and assisting in designated sectors to providing direct care, including for elderly worshippers.

Head of the Chancellery at the Indonesian Consulate General in Jeddah, Soeharyo Tri Sasongko, emphasized on Sunday, April 19, 2026, that these personnel play a crucial role in sustaining PPIH’s overall performance.

“They are the frontline, directly engaging with pilgrims. That requires responsiveness, warmth, and professionalism,” he said, as quoted by Antara.

The teams will be stationed across two main work areas -- Madinah and the airport -- while also being deployed at strategic points requiring immediate assistance.

They have been equipped with updated service procedures, coordination mechanisms with Saudi authorities, and contingency planning to support the implementation of the Makkah route system for more integrated services.

In line with directives from Indonesian Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, the support staff are expected to foster greater synergy and creativity in delivering quality service.

With this preparation, PPIH Saudi Arabia is confident of providing optimal support to pilgrims, particularly as the first group arrives in Madinah on April 22, 2026. ***