After nearly four decades of unwavering patience, dedication, and saving, an Indonesian couple has finally realized their dream of performing Hajj in the holy city of Makkah.
Hajji Legiman, a humble cleaning worker, and his wife arrived recently in Saudi Arabia under the “Makkah Route” Initiative—a special program designed to streamline travel and administrative processes for pilgrims from countries including Indonesia.
For the couple, the experience has been nothing short of miraculous, Gulf News reported.
“I am overjoyed. I couldn’t believe I would finally see the Holy Kaaba with my own eyes,” Legiman said, referring to the sacred structure in the Grand Mosque.
He added, “I thank Allah first, then everyone who helped us. I especially thank those in charge of the Makkah Route Initiative, which made it easier than I could have imagined.”
40-Year Journey
Their journey began in 1986 when the couple started setting aside small savings despite difficult living conditions and demanding jobs.
Year after year, through hard work and determination, they continued contributing to their Hajj fund.
“Despite the challenges, we did not lose hope,” Legiman recalled.
“My wife and I continued to save steadily until we were finally able to register our names on the list of pilgrims this year.”
This year, around 221,000 Indonesian pilgrims are expected to take part in the Hajj rites, set to begin in early June.
As the world’s most populous Muslim-majority country, Indonesia consistently sends one of the largest contingents of pilgrims annually.
The “Makkah Route” Initiative is designed to ease the travel experience for pilgrims. It offers fast-track services including biometric registration, Hajj visa issuance, passport verification, health checks, and luggage handling—all completed at the departure country’s airport.
Upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, pilgrims are transported directly to their accommodation in Makkah or Madinah, while their luggage is delivered to their destination.
For Hajji Legiman and his wife, this program not only made the process smoother but added a sense of dignity and care to their once-in-a-lifetime journey.
Their story is a moving reminder that with patience, faith, and perseverance, even the most distant dreams can become reality. From modest beginnings to standing before the Kaaba, their journey to Makkah is a testament to enduring devotion.
