Total Indonesian Hajj Pilgrim Deaths Significantly Decreased in 2024

Based on data from the Ministry of Religious Affairs' Integrated Hajj Computer and Information System (Siskohat), 234 Indonesian Hajj pilgrims had passed away in Saudi Arabia by the 43rd day of the Hajj pilgrimage, or Monday, June 24, 2024.

The majority, 213 pilgrims, were categorized as high-risk (risti). The remaining 21 pilgrims were not in the high-risk category.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs also recorded that the deaths occurred in Makkah, Madinah, Arafah, Mina, and Jeddah.

The number of deceased pilgrims this year shows a significant decrease compared to 2023, when 773 pilgrims passed away. The total number of deaths in 2023 was the highest in the last six years.

The lowest number of Hajj pilgrim deaths was recorded in 2022, with 89 deaths.

Separately, a viral video on social media showed a deceased Hajj pilgrim left unattended on the streets of Makkah. Director General of Hajj and Umrah Organization, Hilman Latief, clarified that the deceased pilgrim was not Indonesian.

“The circulating video is not related to our pilgrims. There are allegations that the pilgrim was left unattended. Our Hajj officers are a full team, present at several locations, and immediately handled the situation,” said Hilman in a statement from Makkah, as reported on the Ministry of Religious Affairs website on Wednesday, June 19, 2024.

Head of Health for the Indonesian Hajj Pilgrimage Organizing Committee (PPIH), Indro Murwoko, also explained that all Indonesian Hajj pilgrims who fell ill or passed away in the Holy Land received treatment according to procedure.

“Reports from health workers in the field indicate that pilgrims who fell ill or fainted always received treatment, immediate action was taken, and they were then referred to the nearest health facility,” he said.

According to him, if a pilgrim dies, health workers will issue a certificate of death (COD). Then, officers will coordinate with the Maktab office to complete other administrative requirements, such as a letter of consent for burial.

“After the administration is prepared, it is usually handed over to Masyariq or Maktab for the funeral process,” said Indro.