In a touching testament to faith, endurance, and determination, an Indonesian couple has finally made the sacred journey to Mecca for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage after diligently saving for 40 years. Their story, steeped in perseverance and devotion, resonates with millions of Muslims worldwide who dream of fulfilling this once-in-a-lifetime religious duty.
Legiman, a humble cleaning worker, and his wife began their savings journey in 1986, amid modest living conditions and persistent financial challenges. Their goal remained unwavering through the decades—performing Hajj, the fifth pillar of Islam, which is obligatory for all Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake it at least once in their lifetime. For the couple, now in their senior years, 2025 finally marked the year their prayers were answered.
Their long-awaited pilgrimage was made smoother by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Mecca Route Initiative—a special programme designed to streamline the Hajj process for pilgrims from selected countries, including Indonesia. Through this initiative, critical travel procedures such as biometric enrolment, visa issuance, and health compliance verification are completed in the pilgrim’s home country. Upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, pilgrims are able to proceed directly to their accommodations with minimal airport procedures, significantly reducing stress and delays.
Hajj 2025 is projected to take place from June 4 to June 9 in the Gregorian calendar, although the final dates remain subject to the official moon sighting in Saudi Arabia. This period corresponds to the 8th to the 13th of Dhu al-Hijjah in the Islamic calendar, the sacred month during which the pilgrimage rites must be performed.
Pilgrims traditionally begin their journey on the Day of Tarwiyah by travelling to Mina. The next day, they gather on the plains of Arafah for the most important ritual—standing in prayer and reflection. This is followed by overnight stays in Muzdalifah, the symbolic stoning of the devil in Mina, and the sacrificial rites during the Days of Tashreeq.
For Legiman and his wife, the journey is more than a physical passage—it is the fulfilment of a spiritual covenant made decades ago. Their story, which echoes the struggles and hopes of many across the Muslim world, serves as a powerful reminder that with patience, dedication, and faith, even the most distant dreams can become reality.
Their pilgrimage is not just a personal triumph but a reflection of the inclusive efforts by authorities to ease access to Hajj, ensuring that devout Muslims from all walks of life—regardless of economic status—can participate in this spiritual journey of a lifetime.
KIIN360 celebrates this remarkable milestone and the enduring spirit of two individuals whose 40-year dream has finally taken flight beneath the sacred skies of Mecca.
