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| Dr. Rahmad Hakim, S.HI., M.MA., the Head of the Sharia Economics Department of the University of Muhammadiyah Malang. (Photo by Nelda PR of UMM) |
The rise of hajj fees in the beginning of 2023 has garnered the public attention. Now, it is up by 10 million, from IDR 39.8 million to IDR 49,8 for every pilgrim. Meanwhile, organizing the hajj pilgrimage costs in the range of IDR 90,5 million for every pilgrim. Many people protest and feel disappointed with this policy.
Responding to the situation, the Head of the Sharia Economics Department of the University of Muhammadiyah Malang, Dr. Rahmad Hakim, S.HI., M.MA. says that every country has different terms and conditions in the cost determination of hajj. In the Hajj Organizer Fees, it is mentioned that if the system is long to do, it is feared that the pilgrims will not earn the proper value in the upcoming years.
“This hajj fees rise because its subsidy is reduced due to the wrong portion. Seventy percent used to be from the government’s fee, whilst 30% came from the pilgrims. Now, the situation contrasts, 60% is from the pilgrims, while the government’s subsidy is 40%. It eventually makes people consider that hajj is horrible. The first is its expensive cost, and the second is its long waiting period. Additionally, its uncertainty also becomes higher,” said Rahmad.
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He thinks that the policy is fine as it is related to public policy. However, the thing that must be criticized is the simultaneous and sudden announcement. Sustainable socialization should exist because there is a less precise moment, which is inseparable from the post COVID-19 situation especially work termination and staple of life needs significantly increased.
On the other hand, Rahmad asserts that fund transparency must exist because some time ago, there was an issue that the pilgrimage fare in Saudi Arabia decreased about 30%. To anticipate suspicion, detailed explanations about hajj fees must be spread to people, so they can know the value of benefits and certainty of information.
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This policy naturally disappoints people. Nevertheless, Rahmad reminds people about the ability to do pilgrimage. Hajj can only be done by people who are financially enough. It can be both from the travel expense and the temporarily left family. Moreover, those who intend to do pilgrimage, must know its procedures; be sincerely, patiently, humbly, and faithfully; and be mentally and physically healthy.
“(Of course) many people feel objected to the policy. But, don’t worry if your fortune has come, then Allah will show and ease you,” Rahmad ended. (imh/nel/wil)
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