Press Briefing Kementerian Luar Negeri RI, 24 April 2025 Sesi 2

Summary

The transcript discusses the Indonesian Consulate General's efforts to ensure the safety and security of Hajj pilgrims in Saudi Arabia. Key points include managing regular issues such as lost passports and miscommunications, as well as addressing illegal pilgrim cases. The Consulate has been proactive in raising awareness about safe pilgrimage practices and preventing illegal Hajj operations. They are also working on strengthening cooperation with Saudi authorities and improving Indonesia's involvement in the Hajj ecosystem, including food supply and business opportunities for local industries. The Consulate highlights the importance of timely communication and collaboration with various stakeholders to protect the pilgrims.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Consulate General of Indonesia (KJRI) has established a 24-hour team to protect Indonesian hajj pilgrims in Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah, responding to various cases faced by pilgrims.
• 😀 Common issues faced by regular hajj pilgrims include lost passports, unreadable fingerprints, and entry restrictions for individuals who have been previously banned from Saudi Arabia.
• 😀 Pilgrims often face legal issues due to ignorance of local regulations, such as taking photos in prohibited areas or using unauthorized banners during the pilgrimage.
• 😀 The KJRI works swiftly through negotiations to resolve cases involving Indonesian pilgrims, avoiding further legal actions when information is promptly received.
• 😀 Saudi Arabia has implemented stricter visa policies to combat illegal hajj pilgrims, such as limiting the issuance of Umrah and Ziarah visas to prevent misuse.
• 😀 Last year, over 1,200 pilgrims died, with two-thirds being illegal pilgrims, prompting the Saudi government to enforce stricter visa rules for the 2025 hajj season.
• 😀 New Saudi regulations restrict Umrah visa issuance starting from April 13 and require Umrah visa holders to leave Saudi Arabia by April 29.
• 😀 KJRI has been actively campaigning to prevent Indonesian citizens from falling for illegal hajj offers, educating the public on legitimate hajj visa types, including regular, special, and invitation visas.
• 😀 The rise in illegal hajj offers includes schemes involving the sale of Iqama (residence permits) to facilitate access to illegal hajj packages, which is now being strictly monitored.
• 😀 To support the hajj pilgrimage process, KJRI collaborates with Indonesian food suppliers and local businesses to provide products such as Indonesian spices for catering services during the hajj season.

Q & A

What is the primary responsibility of the 'Linjam Protection Team' formed by the Indonesian Consulate General (KJRI)?

The primary responsibility of the Linjam Protection Team is to be on standby 24/7 in Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah to respond to various cases that occur during the Hajj season, including lost passports, individuals whose fingerprints cannot be read, or cases involving people who are banned from entering Saudi Arabia but still receive a Hajj visa.

What are some common issues faced by Indonesian pilgrims during Hajj?

Common issues faced by Indonesian pilgrims during Hajj include lost passports, problems with unreadable fingerprints, issues related to individuals previously banned by the Saudi government, and lack of knowledge about local Saudi regulations. These can lead to incidents such as being arrested for taking random photos or using certain symbols or banners.

How does the KJRI handle cases of illegal pilgrims?

The KJRI deals with illegal pilgrims by conducting socialization efforts to educate the public and prevent people from falling for illegal Hajj offers. They also coordinate with the relevant Saudi authorities to manage cases of illegal pilgrims, including instances of deportation and handling legal issues.

What new regulations did Saudi Arabia introduce regarding Hajj this year?

This year, Saudi Arabia introduced stricter rules, including halting the issuance of Umrah and Ziarah visas for Hajj pilgrims after April 13. Additionally, individuals holding Umrah visas must leave Saudi Arabia by April 29, and only residents of Makkah or those with specific Hajj permits are allowed to enter Makkah.

What are the different types of Hajj visas, and how do they differ?

The different types of Hajj visas include: 1) Regular Hajj visa and Special Hajj visa, issued by the Indonesian government; 2) Hajj Mujamalah, an invitation from the Saudi government; 3) Hajj Furodah, which requires purchasing a Hajj package through an official application; 4) Hajj Dahili, which is for Saudi residents and foreign residents with legal permits; 5) Hajj Omal Musimi, for seasonal workers during Hajj, with special restrictions.

What challenges arise with the Hajj Dahili visa, and how does it work?

The Hajj Dahili visa is meant for Saudi residents and foreign workers with legal residency permits. However, it has been widely sold illegally, with people paying to obtain residency permits (Iqamah) and then purchasing the Dahili Hajj package. Issues arise when sponsors fail to fulfill their obligations, leading to deportation and legal complications.

What is the KJRI doing to prevent people from falling for illegal Hajj offers?

The KJRI is actively working on educating the public about the different types of legal Hajj visas through social media campaigns, press releases, and coordination with the Ministry of Religious Affairs. They aim to inform people about the risks of illegal Hajj offers and encourage safe and legitimate travel arrangements.

What measures have been taken to improve the quality of food and services during Hajj?

To improve the quality of food and services during Hajj, the KJRI has facilitated the import of Indonesian ingredients for catering, ensuring that Indonesian spices and food products are used in the Hajj kitchens. They also coordinated the preparation of 1.4 million ready-to-eat food packages for pilgrims, especially for the Arafah day.

How does the KJRI contribute to the economic ecosystem of Hajj?

The KJRI contributes to the economic ecosystem of Hajj by promoting Indonesian products in Saudi Arabia. For example, they held an 'Amazing Indonesia' exhibition, resulting in significant business transactions. They also work with importers to ensure that Indonesian food products are used in Hajj catering.

How does the KJRI address the issue of illegal workers and their involvement in Hajj?

The KJRI addresses the issue of illegal workers by monitoring and preventing the illegal sale of Hajj Dahili packages. They also ensure that people involved in these illegal practices are informed about the risks, including deportation and being banned from Saudi Arabia for up to 10 years. They also educate the public on legal ways to participate in Hajj.