E-Prosiding Persidangan Serantau Manasik Haji 2025 (MANASIK2025)

MANASIK2025 Putrajaya, Malaysia, 7-8 Oktober 2025 623 companion for people with disabilities should be added to the registration requirements as mentioned in the Minister of Religious Affairs Regulation No. 13 of 2021 on Regular Hajj Organization, Article 5. Moreover, it should be emphasized that the companion for a person with disabilities should be someone without disabilities, not another disabled person. This is why there is a need for a better and more inclusive companion model for disabled Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. An inclusive companion model is vital to ensuring the success of the assistance process during Hajj. Experienced companions who understand various types of disabilities will be able to provide attention and support tailored to the individual needs of disabled pilgrims. Not only in helping them adapt to crowded environments but also in explaining the Hajj rituals in ways they can understand (Jendelaislam.id, 2024). The companion also needs to be sensitive to the psychological needs of disabled pilgrims, who may feel anxious or isolated due to their physical limitations. With an inclusive companion model based on principles of diversity and respect, the companion can offer more personalized and empathetic service, ultimately supporting the smoothness of the worship experience for disabled Hajj pilgrims. An inclusive companion model for people with disabilities requires a comprehensive approach, including the training of professional companions and the provision of adequate facilities. Well- trained companions must have knowledge about various types of disabilities and how to handle them, both in providing physical assistance and emotional support. This training also includes effective communication skills, such as how to interact with visually impaired pilgrims or those with hearing impairments. Disability-friendly facilities, such as wheelchair-accessible paths and easily accessible worship areas, are also crucial to ensure the comfort and smoothness of the pilgrimage for those with physical limitations (DetikHikmah, 2024). With these facilities, disabled pilgrims can feel safer and focus on worship without worrying about difficulties moving in crowded areas. Additionally, companions should provide support based on the type of disability the pilgrim has. For example, for visually impaired pilgrims, companions play an essential role in helping them navigate crowded areas and explaining each ritual in an understandable manner (Voi.id, 2023). The companion also provides psychological support, ensuring that the pilgrim feels emotionally supported and not anxious during the pilgrimage (Hamidah & Anganthi, 2017, p. 94). With clear explanations and physical assistance tailored to their needs, companions can help disabled Hajj pilgrims have a deeper and more meaningful spiritual experience. This inclusive companion model is important so that every pilgrim, even those with physical limitations, can perform Hajj smoothly and meaningfully. Proper arrangements for inclusive companionship and a model based on understanding the specific needs of disabled pilgrims are key to ensuring a smooth and meaningful Hajj pilgrimage. Well-designed arrangements and a responsive support system for the physical and psychological needs of pilgrims will ensure that they can not only perform their worship well but also experience spiritual depth in every ritual they undertake. Therefore, it is essential for the Hajj organizers to pay special attention to these arrangements, ensuring that every pilgrim, without exception, can experience an inclusive and holistic Hajj experience in accordance with the essence and purpose of the pilgrimage itself. The arrangement of companions and the companion model in the implementation of Hajj for people with disabilities is designed to create an inclusive and equal worship experience for all pilgrims. According to data from the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the number of disabled Hajj pilgrims has increased year by year, prompting the need for trained companions and easily accessible facilities. This companion model includes direct assistance from competent officials to help pilgrims with various activities, both physically and administratively, from departure to return. Companions also play an important role in ensuring that disabled pilgrims can access transportation, accommodation, and places of worship safely and comfortably. This regulation also emphasizes the importance of coordination between Hajj officers, pilgrims' families, and the organizers to ensure that the services provided meet the special needs of people with disabilities. The primary goal of these arrangements and companion models is to ensure that people with disabilities can perform Hajj with full comfort and without obstacles, in accordance with the principles of inclusivity and equality of rights.