Jakarta. The government will absorb a sharp rise in hajj flight costs triggered by higher jet fuel prices and currency volatility, ensuring pilgrims are not burdened with additional charges, Hajj and Umrah Minister Mochamad Irfan Yusuf said.

The increase, driven by surging aviation fuel prices and exchange rate fluctuations, has significantly raised aviation costs for the annual pilgrimage. Data shows Garuda Indonesia has proposed an additional Rp 974.8 billion ($56.7 million), while Saudi Airlines has requested Rp 802.8 billion.

In total, hajj flight costs have climbed from Rp 6.69 trillion to Rp 8.46 trillion, marking an increase of Rp 1.77 trillion ($103 million).

Irfan stressed that the additional costs would not be passed on to pilgrims, citing a directive from President Prabowo Subianto.

“The bottom line is that the additional hajj costs will be borne by the government,” Irfan told reporters in Surabaya on Friday.

He added that the ministry had coordinated with Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa on the financing scheme.

“Yes, we have coordinated with Finance Minister Purbaya. This is President Prabowo’s directive. Do not pass the burden on to hajj pilgrims,” he said.

Referring to Law No. 14/2025 on Hajj and Umrah Management, Irfan explained that pilgrims’ flight costs are sourced from the Hajj implementation cost (BPIH), while expenses for officers are covered by the state budget.

He added that with the measures taken, the government is optimistic that the 2026 hajj will be better organized, with improved services for Indonesian pilgrims.