April 23, 2026 | 05:00 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Saudi Arabia is facing skyrocketing prices for basic necessities triggered by inflation, which raises concerns about 2026 Hajj implementation.
Deputy chair of Indonesian House Commission VIII, Singgih Januratmoko, underscored the catering services for Hajj pilgrims amid these inflation pressures. His concern was conveyed while observing Hajj departure in Central Java on Wednesday, April 22, 2026.
Singgih said the departure from the Solo embarkation point went smoothly, with a fast-track scheme imposed, which allows pilgrims to forgo long queues upon arrival in Medina.
But behind this smooth-sailing immigration process, Singgih was concerned about the Hajj accommodation, especially food services. "We acknowledge the inflation in Saudi Arabia, where food prices and other necessities have surged. This is our concern," he stated.
The Indonesian House of Representatives, he went on, has also summoned Hajj catering providers to ensure the quality of services does not dip and even improves.
In addition to the food quality, the parliament focused on catering distribution, noting some recurring issues with the distances of some kitchens to the pilgrims' hotels, which could affect food quality upon delivery.
"We have requested that the kitchens be closer to the hotels," he said.
Although no critical issues were detected during recent observations, the parliament still made precautionary notes, considering the importance of catering services for Hajj pilgrims.
On the other hand, he emphasized pilgrims' role in maintaining their own physical condition, including their diet patterns, especially the elderly. "Sometimes, the elderly pilgrims refuse to eat. This must be considered, because physical condition is crucial, especially during the wukuf in Arafah," he said.
Health exams for the pilgrims, Singgih continued, are also being conducted more rigorously this year, despite complaints that the process took longer. "But this is to ensure that the pilgrims are truly prepared health-wise," he said.
The House Commission VIII hopes that various improvements, especially in the catering services, can address the issues that arose in the previous year's hajj pilgrimage. "We hope that everything will proceed smoothly, and the service quality, including food services, will be improved," said Singgih.
Read: BRIN Technology Powers Food Services for Indonesian Hajj Pilgrims
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