Jakarta – Chiki Fawzi, the daughter of Indonesian musicians Ikang Fawzi and the late Marissa Haque, has publicly addressed her unexpected removal from her role as a prospective hajj officer for the 2026 pilgrimage. While initially disappointed, Fawzi says the experience has prompted a period of reflection, leading her to believe the situation unfolded as part of a larger, divine plan.
The controversy began when Fawzi was informed, during a language training session, that she was being asked to return home, effectively ending her preparation for the role. Details surrounding the decision remained initially unclear, fueling speculation and online commentary. Fawzi described the moment as occurring “at night…with an excuse that ‘it has nothing to do with the criteria and violations,’” according to reporting from VOI.
The situation took another unexpected turn when, after initial reports of her reinstatement, Fawzi clarified that the plan had been canceled again. “It’s not anymore. Even though I’ve packed it back. Yeah. It’s over. I’m confused too,” she shared on her Instagram Story, as reported by VOI. This back-and-forth added to the public’s confusion and prompted Fawzi to address the matter more comprehensively.
Speaking to media outlets, including DetikHot, Fawzi emphasized that she hadn’t violated any rules or engaged in any unprofessional conduct. She explained that the decision appeared to originate from higher authorities within the Ministry of Religion, though she maintained a respectful tone towards the ministry itself, acknowledging that some officials had attempted to advocate for her.
Fawzi also addressed concerns about the recruitment process, noting the existence of two pathways to becoming a hajj officer: a competitive exam and direct appointment. She had been selected through the latter, alongside other influencers and individuals connected to the ministry. This detail, reported by Viva.co.id, became a focal point of online discussion.
The public reaction to her removal was mixed, with some netizens expressing criticism and accusations of impropriety. However, Fawzi found strength in the support of her family, particularly her father, Ikang Fawzi, and her sibling. “Ayah sih kasih support banget sama kakak aku. Kakak ikut belain aku lagi di socmed,” she said, as reported by DetikHot. (My father gave a lot of support, and my sibling defended me on social media.)
Fawzi also reflected on the broader challenges associated with the hajj pilgrimage itself, noting that the journey is often fraught with difficulties. “Menurut aku ini memang hal yang harus aku hadapi sendiri,” she stated. (I think this is something I have to face on my own.) She drew upon a quote attributed to Ali bin Abi Thalib, advising against attempting to explain oneself to those who are predisposed to dislike, and focusing instead on nurturing relationships with those who are supportive.
Addressing concerns that her initial expression of wanting to serve as a hajj officer while also performing the pilgrimage might have been misinterpreted, Fawzi clarified that there is a specific set of religious knowledge (fiqih) required for those serving in an official capacity. “Jadi memang mungkin jalan aku menuju haji atau petugas haji. Ini nanti di-framing lagi nih, kalau misalnya aku bilang apa, ingin haji sambil melayani, diksi itu yang di-framing padahal sebenarnya memang ada fiqih petugas kelasnya sendiri,” she explained, according to Viva.co.id. (So maybe my path to hajj or as a hajj officer will be framed. If I say I want to perform hajj while serving, that wording will be framed, when in fact there is a specific class of fiqih for officers.)
Fawzi framed the experience as a test of faith, choosing to view the negative attention as an opportunity to accumulate spiritual rewards. “Hitung-hitung aku lagi dapat banyak transfer pahala lho dari orang-orang yang ngefitnah,” she said. (I’m getting a lot of transferred rewards from the people who are slandering me.) “Mungkin memang Allah lagi sayang saja sama aku,” she concluded, suggesting she believes the situation is a demonstration of divine favor. (Maybe Allah just loves me.)
The incident highlights the complexities of public service and the scrutiny faced by public figures in Indonesia, particularly when religious observances are involved. While the full circumstances surrounding Fawzi’s removal remain somewhat opaque, her response demonstrates a resilience and a commitment to maintaining a positive outlook in the face of adversity.
