Indonesia’s House of Representatives is reviewing a proposal to lower the minimum Hajj registration age to as young as nine years old, from the current requirement of 18 years.
This will address Indonesia’s extensive waiting period—often exceeding 30 years—which frequently results in pilgrims arriving in Mecca at an advanced age, potentially compromising their ability to perform rituals safely.
Marwan Dasopang, Chair of House Commission VIII, confirmed the ongoing deliberations at the Parliamentary Complex in Senayan on Friday. While existing religious affairs regulations set the minimum registration age at 12, the proposal suggests adopting the Islamic concept of mumayiz—when a child can distinguish between right and wrong, typically around age seven—as an eligibility criterion.
“If someone registers at 18, they may only perform Hajj at 67,” Dasopang explained. “At that age, physical capability diminishes, raising safety concerns.” He also cited expectations that Saudi authorities may impose stricter age limits following high mortality rates during recent Hajj seasons.
The Hajj and Umrah Bill, part of Indonesia’s 2025–2029 National Legislative Program, is slated for a plenary vote on August 26. If passed, it will formally transfer Hajj management from the Ministry of Religious Affairs to a dedicated Hajj Management Agency starting in 2026.
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