Minister of Religious Affairs (Menag), Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, revealed that the halal industry cooperation between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia is in the final stages, awaiting the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). President Joko Widodo has expressed his desire for the MoU to be signed promptly. Following a working visit from the Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Indonesia, Faisal bin Abdullah Al-Amudi, at the Ministry of Religious Affairs office in Central Jakarta, Menag stated that the signing of the MoU is crucial to realizing the collaboration between the two countries.
During their meeting, discussions encompassed various current issues, including the upcoming 1444 H/2023 M Hajj pilgrimage and cooperation in the halal industry sector. Yaqut emphasized the significance of innovative services such as fast-track facilities and biometric visas, which facilitate a seamless experience for Indonesian Hajj pilgrims. President Jokowi also expressed his aspirations for a strengthened partnership in the Hajj sector with Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the development of a robust Hajj trade ecosystem. The Saudi Arabian Ambassador praised the Indonesian government's meticulous preparations and seamless execution of the Hajj pilgrimage, commending the exceptional services provided to Indonesian Hajj pilgrims. The Saudi Arabian government feels honored to contribute to the successful pilgrimage and support the growing cooperation between the two nations.
