Kementerian Agama (Kemenag) has declared that from this year onwards, family members or muhrim of elderly or high-risk pilgrims will no longer be allowed to accompany them on their Hajj journey. A new program titled Pendamping Haji Daerah (PHD) will replace the previous program. In Brebes regency, Central Java, activists have criticized the recent proposal of two local government officials as PHD candidates.
Dedy Rohman, the Chairman of LSM Landep Brebes, has expressed his disappointment with the inclusion of two government officials, namely the Secretary of Brebes Regency, Joko Gunawan, and Head of Welfare Department, Ahmad Saehu, on the PHD proposal list. He argued that as elderly pilgrims require physical and age-appropriate assistance, he does not believe that officials could handle the physical rigors of Hajj journey.
Moreover, Dedy also questioned whether the district government had publicly announced the list of PHD candidate names submitted to the Central Java Province. Publicizing the names of selected candidates was essential, as this was related to public expenditure, as Dedy explained: “it is mandatory to disclose candidate information openly and transparently, especially when it comes to the utilization of APBD (regional budget).”
However, Brebes Regency Secretary, Joko Gunawan, has stated that all PHD recruitment procedures had been appropriately followed according to the Central Java provincial regulations. The provincial government had requested six local officials comprising of two medical personnel, two guides, and two general support staff. One doctor, one nurse, and two Kyai (Muslim scholars) applied as medical personnel and guides, while Joko Gunawan and Ahmad Saehu applied as general support staff.
Joko Gunawan also emphasized that the six applicants had fulfilled the eligibility criteria in terms of age, education, and medical requirements. The selection process involved candidates taking an assessment test, followed by the examination of official documents, which were then reviewed by the province.
In response to concerns regarding public transparency, Joko stated that the official announcement would be under the authority of the provincial government and advised individuals to contact the relevant department for more information.
In conclusion, it is crucial for the selection of PHD candidates to follow the appropriate regulations and to ensure that the right individuals are selected for the job. Public transparency is also essential to highlight accountability regarding public expenditure and the selection of PHD candidates.
