Aceh Governor Sees Off First Hajj Pilgrim Group, Reminds Pilgrims of Physical and Spiritual Preparedness
BANDA ACEH - The first group of prospective Hajj pilgrims from Aceh was officially dispatched from the Aceh Hajj Embarkation Dormitory on Tuesday (5/5/2026). In his farewell address, Aceh Governor Muzakir Manaf reminded the pilgrims to be cautious, maintain their health, and prepare themselves physically and spiritually before performing the Hajj pilgrimage.
He emphasized the importance of cleansing the heart of envy, spite, grudges, and arrogance before heading to the Holy Land. He also reminded that Hajj requires physical strength, especially during Sa'i, Tawaf, and the stoning of the jamarat. Pilgrims were urged to maintain patience, sincerity, and a sense of togetherness. "Our focus is worship. May Allah accept all our deeds when we stand at Arafat," he said.
Head of the Aceh Regional Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Arijal, stated that the number of Acehnese prospective pilgrims this year is around 5,500, divided into 14 groups. The first group consists of 393 pilgrims from Banda Aceh and Aceh Besar. The Hajj waiting period in Aceh is now about 26 years, down from the previous 34 years. Support from the Baitul Asyi endowment fund may also potentially be provided to the pilgrims.
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