Padang, July 12 -- The Hajj Organizing Agency (BP Haji) rejected the proposal to send Indonesian Hajj pilgrims to Saudi Arabia by sea for next year's Hajj season-a plan currently under review by the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

"Yes, BP Haji does not agree to sending Hajj pilgrims by ship," BP Haji expert staff member Ichsan Marsha stated in Padang City, West Sumatra, on Saturday.

He explained that the proposal essentially conflicts with the agency's commitment to proffering the best possible services and experiences for Indonesian pilgrims.

Marsha noted that President Prabowo Subianto had instructed BP Haji-which will take over Hajj organizing duties from the Religious Affairs Ministry next year-to find ways to further reduce the tr...