Jakarta, IO – The Religious Affairs Ministry (Kemenag) reported the “backpacking” (independent) umrah (minor hajj) organizer to Jakarta Metropolitan Police (Polda Metro Jaya).
Kemenag umrah and hajj development director Nur Arifin the organizer is not licensed as umrah travel agency (PPIU), per CNNIndonesia, Thursday (5/10).
“We have lodge letter of complaint to Polda Metro Jaya regarding alleged criminal acts in organizing the umrah activities on September 12,” said Nur.
Although he did not specify the party being reported, Nur explained that this phenomenon had become a topic of conversation because information about the program offer has circulated widely on various social media platforms.
Nur pointed out that umrah activities are regulated by law. One of the articles states that “any person or entity not licensed as PPIU is prohibited from gathering and/or dispatching umrah pilgrims.”
“There is a threat of serious criminal penalties for organizing umrah pilgrimages that do not comply with regulations,” he added.
Nur said the ministry has asked Polda Metro Jaya to take firm action against operators who do not comply with this rule. According to Nur, the report is made in the name of public interest.
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He also appealed to the public to be more careful when choosing umrah travel service. “People must be aware of the regulations, don’t be tempted by the (low) price,” he said.
“We also expect support from licensed PPIU operators to take part in reporting unscrupulous parties who do not have permits but make offers, gather prospective pilgrims, receive payments and dispatch the pilgrims,” he said. (un)