The Ministry of Religious Affairs reported that 194,744 people had paid their Hajj pilgrimage costs (Bipih) by the time the second payment phase closed on March 26, 2024.
According to Saiful Mujab, Director of Domestic Hajj Services at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, this number comprises 192,874 regular prospective Hajj pilgrims, 1,484 Regional Hajj Officers (PHD), and 386 Hajj and Umrah Guidance Groups (KBIHU).
This year, Indonesia received a Hajj quota of 221,000 people, plus an additional 20,000 quota, totaling 241,000 people.
The quota is divided into 213,320 regular Hajj pilgrims and 27,680 special Hajj pilgrims. "This means there is still a remaining quota," said Saiful, as reported by Antara on Tuesday (March 27, 2024).
According to Saiful, the Ministry of Religious Affairs is still considering extending the payment deadline.
"Currently, there are also 26,351 pilgrims who have paid, but with reserve status. They will fill the quota if there are any remaining slots by the final payment deadline," he said.
Separately, Liliek Marhaendro Susilo, Head of the Hajj Health Center at the Ministry of Health, urged prospective Hajj pilgrims to prepare physically before their departure to the Holy Land.
Liliek stated that Hajj requires physical endurance, especially during the peak Hajj season.
"Adopt a healthy lifestyle. Walk every morning, or try to do light exercise regularly every day if possible," said Liliek.