Jakarta – January 2024, The even semester of the 2023/2024 academic year began with an exciting off-campus activity for the pupils of Al Siddiq International Kindergarten, who took part in a Hajj Rehearsal (Manasik Haji) held at At-Tiin Mosque, Taman Mini Indonesia Indah. The event, which took place on Thursday, 18 January 2024, was organised by the Association of Indonesian Kindergarten Teachers (IGTKI).
The participants came from various kindergartens across Pondok Gede District, with Al Siddiq International Kindergarten joining Group 3 Jatimakmur. The large number of attendees created a lively and memorable experience for the pupils, especially as they were accompanied by their parents throughout the activity.
The excitement began from the preparation and journey to the venue, continuing throughout the Hajj rehearsal. The organisers had carefully prepared the area, setting up tents and stations designed to resemble the holy sites in Makkah as closely as possible.
To ensure smooth proceedings, the children waited in an orderly manner inside At-Tiin Mosque before departing according to their group order. The procession then moved to the first tent, where each group was guided to recite prayers at every designated station.
The journey started at the Arafah Tent, continued to the Muzdalifah Tent, and then through the Mina Tunnel. Upon exiting the tunnel, the children performed the symbolic Stoning of the Jamarat — Jumrah Ula, Jumrah Wusta, and Jumrah Aqabah. Next, they carried out the Tawaf (circling the miniature Ka’bah) three times while reciting the appropriate prayers.
After completing the Tawaf, the group continued to Safa and Marwah Hills, and finally performed Tahalul (symbolic hair cutting).
Alhamdulillah, the Hajj rehearsal for Al Siddiq International Kindergarten pupils ran smoothly and successfully. The children not only enjoyed gathering with peers from other kindergartens but also gained valuable knowledge about the proper and respectful performance of the Hajj rituals.
[Ed.]
By ESTY INDRASWARIANI, S.Sos