PORTALJABAR, GARUT REGENCY - The Regent of Garut, Abdusy Syakur Amin, officially released the departure of 174 Hajj Pilgrims from Group 22 KJT from Garut Regency in 1446 H/2026 M. The solemn release ceremony was held at Babancong Pendopo, Garut Regency, Thursday (7/5/2026).

Regent Abdusy Syakur Amin emphasized that the pilgrims were God's chosen guests to carry out the fifth pillar of Islam in the holy lands of Mecca and Medina.

"The Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam, so this is a joy for the Hajj pilgrims. I hope the Hajj pilgrims will always be sincere in carrying it out," said the Regent.

The Regent also urged the pilgrims to maintain their health and safety while in the Holy Land, to look after and remind each other, and to obey the instructions of the Hajj officials. He also urged the families left behind not to worry, and prayed for the protection of Allah SWT for all pilgrims.

As a form of public service, the Garut Regency Government is fully committed to supporting the smooth running of this year's Hajj pilgrimage by providing transportation and accommodation facilities during the departure process.

"This is a manifestation of the Garut Regency Government's commitment to helping its citizens perform the Hajj pilgrimage comfortably, safely, and orderly," said Syakur Amin.

Meanwhile, the Head of Hajj and Umrah for Garut Regency, Indra Azwar Mawardi, reported that the 22nd group of Hajj and Umrah (KJT) departed with 169 pilgrims and five Hajj officials, totaling 174 pilgrims. Several pilgrims had their departures postponed due to health reasons. Furthermore, the oldest pilgrim was 93 years old and the youngest was 17.

The travel route is from Pendopo Garut → Indramayu Embarkation Hajj Dormitory → Kertajati West Java International Airport (BIJB). Group 22 also departed with pilgrims from Bandung and Cimahi.

In conclusion, Indra expressed his appreciation to the Regent of Garut for the facilities provided at the Pendopo as a gathering point for departure and return.

"We ask for prayers and support from all parties, including the Regional Leadership Communication Forum (Forkopimda), the regional government, civil servants, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the Indonesian National Police (Polri), Islamic organizations, and the general public, so that all pilgrims can return home intact, healthy, and with the title of accepted and accepted Hajj," he concluded. (Garut Communication and Information Service/rka)