PORTALJABAR, BOGOR REGENCY - Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto personally saw off 442 prospective hajj pilgrims from Group 8 of Bogor Regency, which took place in Tegar Beriman, on Sunday (4/5/2025).

Different from previous years, Rudy is committed to releasing nine groups, not just symbolically, in one group.

"Usually, one symbolic group is enough. But I told the Regional Secretary, allow me to participate in releasing nine groups. This is a great honor for me personally and the Bogor Regency Government," said Rudy in his speech.

In the eighth group, Rudy highlighted the inspiring story of an 83-year-old pilgrim and a 100-year-old prospective pilgrim, who were planned to depart in the 40th group.

"He has been saving since 1955. This is proof that the Hajj pilgrimage is not about money or queues, but about the pleasure of Allah SWT," he said.

Therefore, he appealed to the congregation, especially the younger ones, to look after and help the elderly congregation. He also asked for prayers so that Bogor Regency leaders would be given the strength to lead in a trustworthy manner and side with the people.

"Hopefully the 442 prospective Hajj pilgrims from group 8 will leave and return in good health, and will be successful Hajj pilgrims, not one less," concluded Rudy with great hope.

In addition, Rudy also revealed that he has a collection of Kaaba kiswah which will later be installed in the mosque whose construction is currently being planned.

"Not to be kept at home, but we will install it in the mosque which God willing will be built soon," he concluded.

Then, the Head of the Bogor Regency Ministry of Religion, Syukri stated that prospective Hajj pilgrims group 08 will depart for Soekarno Hatta airport on May 5, 2025 at 17.00 WIB and take off at 22.00 WIB. Then they will return to their homeland at 20.45 on June 15, 2025.

"They will stay in Mecca for 30 days. So while in the Holy Land Including in Musdalifah Arafah Mina They will get 128 meals. This is part of our government's program that God willing, Mr. President Prabowo Not only school children But all of you also get the same opportunity there," he added. (Public Communication Team / Bogor Regency Communication and Information Service / rka)