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The Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages have always presented challenges regarding navigation, communication, and information accessibility. Addressing these challenges, a Digital Innovation Study Programme team under the Information Systems Department of Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) has developed an application called MeccaBot. It looks to enhance the digital life of worshippers and the pilgrimage experience for worship.
The team leader, Ir Achmad Holil Noor Ali MKom, shared that the development of MeccaBot was driven by user feedback on Mecca WABot, which was initially only available via WhatsApp. Integrating this functionality into a dedicated mobile application, MeccaBot offers a more robust and user-friendly platform. “The MeccaBot mobile application is already integrated with the Ministry of Religion of the Republic of Indonesia, ensuring that the prayer services cater to all groups,” Achmad explained. This integration means the application can address the diverse needs of different user groups more effectively than before.
One of the standout features of MeccaBot is its ability to assist congregants who often get lost during worship. The app allows users to mark their starting point with a selfie, which can be accessed later through the bot. This feature ensures that users can quickly return to their original location. “This photo can later be re-visible to congregants and can be selected whenever they wish to return to the place,” said Achmad, highlighting the practical utility of this feature.
Additionally, the MeccaBot app is now accessible in English, broadening its usability to international pilgrims. This expansion from being a tool for Indonesian speakers to one that serves a global audience marks a significant step forward in making the pilgrimage experience more inclusive.
“Previously, Mecca WABot was only available in Indonesian. Now, we are developing it so that pilgrims around the world can use it too,” Achmad added.
The app boasts many features designed to assist pilgrims in their journey. These include an Umrah guide, information on public transportation stops in Mecca, practice features for worship, and details on pilgrimage sites, the footsteps of the Prophet, hotels, souvenir shops, and travel routes. These features collectively make MeccaBot a comprehensive digital companion for pilgrims, providing crucial information and guidance at their fingertips.
Despite its extensive functionalities, the MeccaBot app remains lightweight, occupying only 50 megabytes of storage space. This consideration ensures that users with limited phone storage can still benefit from the app without hindrance. “We want to facilitate worship for all people. We don’t want limited storage space on their cellphones to hinder their access,” Achmad highlighted.
Currently, the MeccaBot application is in the verification stage for release on the Playstore platform. Once released, Hajj and Umrah pilgrims worldwide can download and use the app. Achmad encouraged future users to provide feedback through the app’s suggestion column for continuous improvement. “We want all pilgrims to use this application while worshipping and to provide suggestions for our future evaluation,” he said.
The development team behind MeccaBot comprises ITS Information Systems Department students Luthfi Hakim Irawan, Fathia Rahmanisa Dzakiyyarani, Hanny, and Kahfin Ilham, along with ITS Information Systems Department lecturer Rizal Risnanda Hutama SKom MKom. Their collaborative effort has garnered support, including ITS incubator funds, aimed at transforming MeccaBot into a startup company.
MeccaBot exemplifies how digital literacy and technological innovation can significantly enhance religious practices, making the Hajj and Umrah experiences safer, more organised, and accessible for all pilgrims.
As technology continues to evolve, such initiatives highlight the importance of integrating digital solutions into traditional practices, ensuring they remain relevant and beneficial in the modern age. The success of MeccaBot could inspire similar digital innovations in other areas of religious and cultural significance, fostering a more connected and informed global community.
