TIMESINDONESIA, JAKARTA – In an innovative move, Indonesia's Minister of Religious Affairs, Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, revealed the ministry's active development of a digital platform aimed at enhancing the search for lost pilgrims. This initiative, especially focused on the elderly and disabled, is set to revolutionize the Hajj experience in 2024.
During a recent announcement at the Pondok Gede Hajj Dormitory in Jakarta, Minister Qoumas emphasized the shift towards a pilgrim-centric digital application, differing from the current staff-centric systems. This development is in collaboration with Ainun Najib, aiming to streamline and personalize the Hajj journey for every pilgrim.
The new digital platform will enable quicker identification and resolution of issues pilgrims face, such as dietary needs in Musdalifah, ensuring a smoother experience. The Minister stressed the importance of thorough training for staff on the new application to build a competent team dedicated to providing exceptional service, especially to the elderly and disabled.
A stern approach will be adopted against any staff negligence towards elderly and disabled pilgrims, with immediate consequences to maintain the highest standards of care.
Highlighting the special focus on elderly pilgrims, Minister Qoumas pointed out the significant number of elderly individuals undertaking the pilgrimage, necessitating specialized programs and services. From tailored transportation to specific dietary and health care provisions, the ministry aims to cover all aspects of service to ensure a comfortable and dignified Hajj experience for them.
The digitalization effort extends to all processes in Saudi Arabia, including the queue system for entering Raudhah, ensuring a seamless and enriched pilgrimage experience. Pilgrims and staff alike are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new digital tools to fully benefit from the enhanced services.
The commitment to improving the pilgrimage experience, particularly for the elderly and disabled, coupled with the digital transformation in Saudi Arabia, is poised to make the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage more accessible, efficient, and spiritually fulfilling for all pilgrims.
This digital transition is not just about convenience but also about inclusivity and safety. The Ministry's focus on developing a pilgrim-based application underscores a shift towards making the Hajj more accessible and responsive to the needs of all pilgrims, especially those who are most vulnerable.
The application's development is guided by the principle that every pilgrim, regardless of age or ability, deserves a fulfilling and hassle-free Hajj experience. This digital approach is expected to mitigate the risks of pilgrims getting lost, with special attention to the elderly, who represent a substantial portion of the pilgrim population.
The Minister's firm stance on the immediate repatriation of any staff member who neglects their duties towards elderly and disabled pilgrims reflects a zero-tolerance policy for inadequate care. This policy aims to ensure that the welfare of these pilgrims is prioritized at every stage of their spiritual journey.
In addition to the digital platform, the Ministry is planning to implement various programs specifically designed for elderly and disabled pilgrims. These programs will address the unique challenges they face, ensuring that their spiritual journey is as comfortable and meaningful as possible.
The digitalization of the Hajj process, particularly in Saudi Arabia, signifies a major shift towards a more modern and efficient pilgrimage. With digital queues for sacred sites like Raudhah, the Ministry aims to streamline the pilgrimage process, allowing pilgrims to focus more on their spiritual experience and less on logistical challenges. (*)
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| Editor | : Khodijah Siti |
| Publisher | : Ahmad Rizki Mubarok |
