The first batch of Indonesian haj pilgrims has left for two of Islam's holiest places, Mecca and Medina, during the weekend from a number of cities to perform the annual religious journey.
This year, Indonesia has a quota of 210,000 pilgrims, or 5,000 more than last year. Flag-carrier Garuda Indonesia will transport the pilgrims on 288 flights while Saudi Arabian Airlines will operate 195 flights.
"For haj pilgrims, this is a moment of truth," Religious Affairs Minister Maftuh Basyuni was quoted Monday by local newspaper The Jakarta Post as saying.
"I trust all pilgrims will obey the regulations and schedule set by the Saudi Arabian government," he said.
In addition to Jakarta, other cities designated as departure points include Banda Aceh, Medan, Padang, Palembang, Batam, Surakarta, Surabaya, Balikpapan and Makassar, all of which sent the first flights on Saturday. Meanwhile, Banjarmasin had its first haj flight on Sunday.
The haj pilgrimage, for those who can afford it, is the fifth of the five pillars of Islam.
This year, the procession will end on Dec. 20 on a holiday called Idul Adha or the Day of Sacrifice.
Source: Xinhua
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