Jakarta, April 4 -- Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting citizens from illegal Hajj travel schemes, as Saudi Arabia enforces stricter pilgrimage regulations.

"It is crucial for Indonesians to understand that only a Hajj visa is recognized by the Saudi government for performing the pilgrimage," Director General of Hajj and Umrah Implementation Puji Raharjo said.

He made the remarks after meeting Indonesian Consul General in Jeddah Yusron B. Ambary at the consulate office, according to a statement released in Jakarta on Saturday.

Raharjo said the ministry and the consulate had agreed to intensify public education efforts to prevent Indonesians from using non-procedural travel arrangements....