RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia is strengthening its overseas services for Hajj pilgrims by ensuring familiar meals and strict food safety standards, as dozens of catering kitchens are prepared to serve Indonesian pilgrims during their stay in Madinah, with the Hajj Organizing Committee (PPIH) reporting that 23 kitchens are ready to serve first-batch pilgrims arriving from Indonesia.

Head of the Consumption Section for the Madinah Working Area, Beny Darmawan, ensured that the meals provided will feature authentic Indonesian flavors, allowing pilgrims to feel at ease during their approximately nine-day stay in the city. “All of them have been selected by the Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah,” Beny said in a statement in Jakarta on Monday, April 20, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

During their stay in Madinah, Indonesian pilgrims will receive 27 meals in total, or three meals per day, following typical Indonesian eating habits in the morning, afternoon, and evening. Beny explained that all spices used in the meals are imported directly from Indonesia in paste form, making distribution and production more efficient compared to raw ingredients.

In addition to ingredients, staffing is also strictly regulated. Each catering provider must employ at least two main chefs and four assistants from Indonesia. “This is a requirement, and thankfully all selected kitchens have fulfilled it,” he said.

Special meal adjustments are also provided for elderly pilgrims to ensure proper nutrition and easier digestion. “For elderly pilgrims, menus can be adjusted upon request. The dishes are generally the same, but rice may be made into porridge or softened for easier consumption,” he added.

To guarantee food quality and safety, inspections are conducted at multiple points, including the Madinah working area office, the Indonesian Hajj Health Clinic (KKHI), and at the pilgrims’ accommodation sectors. Final checks are also carried out by on-site consumption officers at hotels before meals are served. ***