JAKARTA – The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, through the Directorate General of Hajj and Umrah Economic Ecosystem Development (Ditjen PE2HU), is accelerating efforts to strengthen the national Hajj economy. A flagship digital platform dedicated to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs/UMKM) is slated for introduction in March 2026.
This strategic move was finalized during a high-level inter-ministerial meeting between Ditjen PE2HU and the Ministry of Trade in Jakarta on Thursday (Jan 29, 2026). The collaboration focuses on synchronizing the Hajj commodity supply chain and expanding market access for Indonesian products in Saudi Arabia.
Revolutionizing the Souvenir Industry
Jaenal Effendi, Director General of PE2HU, stated that the upcoming Hajj SME platform is designed to offer pilgrims a seamless online shopping experience for traditional souvenirs. This innovation aims to shift the economic impact of pilgrim spending back to Indonesia.
”This platform allows pilgrims to purchase souvenirs online without the burden of carrying them from Saudi Arabia. By doing so, we ensure that the economic value of these transactions circulates within our domestic economy,” Effendi explained.
Beyond the digital landscape, the government plans to host the “Hajj and Umrah SME Expo.” This initiative is expected to open broader market opportunities for local producers and integrate them into the global Hajj value chain.
Quality Assurance and Halal Standards
The Ministry of Trade has pledged its full support, particularly in facilitating exports and ensuring product quality. To compete internationally, all SME products featured on the platform must meet rigorous qualification standards.
Fajarini Puntodewi, Director General of National Export Development at the Ministry of Trade, emphasized that health and safety certifications are non-negotiable, particularly for food and beverage products.
”We are prioritizing official Halal certification. Every certified product guarantees quality, hygiene, and health standards, ensuring that pilgrims can shop with confidence and security,” Puntodewi noted.
Strengthening Cross-Sector Synergy
This inter-ministerial synergy highlights Indonesia’s commitment to optimizing the massive economic potential of the Hajj season. With the Ministry of Trade facilitating market entry into Saudi Arabia, Ditjen PE2HU is optimistic about the long-term sustainability of the national Hajj ecosystem.
”The Ministry of Trade plays a strategic role in supporting Indonesian exports to Saudi Arabia. We must continue to work side-by-side to ensure our Hajj economic ecosystem thrives sustainably,” Effendi concluded.
By integrating digital technology with trade regulations, the Indonesian government aims to transform the Hajj pilgrimage into a significant driver for national economic growth and SME empowerment.