The Implementation of Hajj Organization in Bengkulu Province in 2023 (A Study on the Allocation of Hajj Quotas for Bengkulu Province)

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to understand the implementation of the Hajj pilgrimage in Bengkulu Province in 2023 and to determine the impact of Governor Regulation Number L.126.B-1 of 2023 regarding the Allocation of Hajj Quotas for Regencies/Cities in Bengkulu Province on public policy.  The method used in this research was descriptive qualitative, employing observation, interviews, and documentation. Meanwhile, the informants consisted of four individuals who were part of the Hajj and Umrah organization within the Regional Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs in Bengkulu Province. The research results are elaborated in four aspects: 1) Policy Socialization: The socialization or provision of understanding to the community and relevant stakeholders regarding programs, policies, and legal regulations that have been established should continue to be carried out to assist in resolving various issues that occur within the community. 2) Hajj Organization Activities: The Bengkulu Provincial Government collaborates with the Regional Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs in Bengkulu Province to implement the government's policies regarding Hajj organization. 3) Monitoring: The allocation of Hajj quotas in 2023 was carried out in accordance with policy plans, and there was even an increase in quotas for Bengkulu Province. Furthermore, the Hajj organization was conducted in accordance with the Governor's decision, which allocated the quota of Hajj pilgrims per regency/city in Bengkulu Province. Despite some individuals canceling their departure due to illness and other reasons, the Bengkulu Provincial Government, in collaboration with the Regional Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs in Bengkulu Province, promptly allocated these quotas to backup prospective Hajj pilgrims from Bengkulu Province. This ensured that the available quotas were not left unfilled. 4) Evaluation: Implementing the Hajj Organization in Bengkulu Province in 2023 at the Regional Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs in Bengkulu Province has applied the principles of fairness, transparency, and proportionality quite well. As an implication, several new policies have been designed to address the issue of the long waiting period for departure, namely: First, the introduction of special Hajj quotas for the elderly, comprising one percent of the national quota. Second, the consolidation of family members such as husbands, wives, and children with their parents for Hajj. Third, the allocation of quotas for deceased and permanently ill pilgrims. 

Keywords: Implementation, Organization, Hajj Quotas.