Haji Ramah Lansia: Kemenag RI Keeps Committing to Elderly Pilgrims in 2024

TIMESINDONESIA, MAKKAH – The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag RI) has once again embraced the tagline "Haji Ramah Lansia" (Elderly-Friendly Hajj) for the 1445 H/2024 M hajj operations, continuing from the previous year's initiative.

This focus is particularly significant given the substantial number of elderly Indonesian pilgrims participating in the hajj this year.

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According to the Integrated Hajj Information and Computerization System (Siskohat) of Kemenag RI, nearly 45,000 pilgrims aged 65 and above will embark on the hajj journey this year. This demographic constitutes almost 21% of the total regular hajj quota of 213,320 pilgrims. The breakdown of elderly pilgrims is as follows:

- Aged 66-75 years: 34,420 pilgrims
- Aged 76-85 years: 8,435 pilgrims
- Aged 86-95 years: 1,835 pilgrims
- Aged over 95 years: 55 pilgrims

The oldest pilgrim this year is Mbah Harjo Mislan from Ponorogo, East Java, who is 110 years old.

Categorization of Elderly Pilgrims

Kemenag RI has identified four categories of elderly pilgrims to better tailor their services:

1. Independent Elderly: Those who can perform daily activities independently.
2. Elderly with Comorbidities: Those who have underlying health conditions but can still manage their daily activities independently.
3. Elderly Requiring Assistance for Outdoor Activities: Those who need help with activities outside their living quarters.
4. Elderly Requiring Assistance for All Activities: Those who need help with activities both inside and outside their living quarters.

Given these demographics, Kemenag RI is committed to providing the best possible services for elderly pilgrims. This includes special accommodations, healthcare services, and logistical support tailored to their needs. Disabled pilgrims also receive focused attention to ensure their hajj experience is as smooth and fulfilling as possible.

Related Initiatives and Support Systems

Several initiatives and support systems have been introduced to enhance the hajj experience for elderly and disabled pilgrims:

- Health Readiness Services: A structured health service plan for the 2024 hajj.
- Coordination with Garuda Indonesia: Efforts to improve hajj services in collaboration with the Ministry of Transportation.
- Inspiring Stories: Highlighting stories of individuals, like Subiyanto, who pursue their hajj journey despite challenges.
- Kawal Haji App: A practical solution for reporting and monitoring hajj activities.
- Active Supervision by DPD RI: The Regional Representatives Council's active role in overseeing hajj organization.

Kemenag RI dedication to an Elderly-Friendly Hajj ensures that all pilgrims, regardless of age or physical condition, can fulfill their religious duties with dignity and care. This initiative not only underscores the importance of inclusivity but also highlights Indonesia's commitment to the well-being of its citizens during one of the most significant spiritual journeys of their lives. (*)

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