Religious Affairs Minister Maftuh Basyuni officially sent off Wednesday morning 450 haj pilgrims as part of the country's first group to leave for Saudi Arabia.
"This is a moment the pilgrims have all been waiting for, the chance to perform the haj. I wish them a blessed and accept one," Maftuh told pilgrims at the Haj Terminal of the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport.
Jakarta Governor Fauzi Bowo and several top officials of the Religious Affairs Ministry were also present at the ceremony.
The haj is the annual Muslim pilgrimage ritual to Mecca, Saudi Arabia. It is the fifth pillar of Islam, an obligation that must be carried out at least once in their lifetime by every able-bodied Muslim who can afford to do so.
"Perform the act of worship solemnly and sincerely, as taught and
guided by Prophet Muhammad," Maftuh was quoted by Kompas.com as saying.
He also reminded the pilgrims to respect local cultural practices.
Meanwhile, Fauzi Bowo advised pilgrims to be wary of inner traits that might spoil their haj, such as envy and arrogance. (amr)
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