Former Indonesian Religious Affairs Minister Summoned in Hajj Quota Corruption Probe
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Indonesia’s anti-corruption agency, the KPK, has summoned former Minister of Religion Yaqut Cholil Qoumas for a second time in connection with a suspected corruption case involving the allocation of Hajj pilgrimage quotas for 2024. The investigation centers on allegations of irregularities surrounding the distribution of an additional 20,000 Hajj spots.
The KPK confirmed the summons, stating that Yaqut, who served as Minister from 2020 to 2024, is scheduled to appear before investigators on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. “It is true, in the continuation of the investigation into the alleged criminal act of corruption related to the Hajj quota, today Tuesday (16/12), a summons is scheduled for an examination of Brother YCQ, Minister of Religion for the 2020-2024 period,” a KPK spokesperson told journalists.
This latest questioning follows a previous examination as part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities expressed confidence that Yaqut would comply with the summons. A senior official stated that the inquiry is focused on understanding the decision-making process behind the allocation of the additional quota.
Background: The Hajj Quota Controversy
The case stems from Indonesia’s successful lobbying efforts with Saudi Arabia, led by then-President Joko Widodo (Jokowi), to secure an additional 20,000 Hajj pilgrimage slots for 2024. This increase was intended to address the lengthy waiting lists – often exceeding 20 years – faced by Indonesian citizens seeking to fulfill the religious obligation of Hajj.
Prior to the additional quota, Indonesia was allocated 221,000 Hajj places for 2024, bringing the total to 241,000 after the increase. However, the distribution of the additional quota has come under scrutiny. While the increase was split evenly – 10,000 for regular pilgrims and 10,000 for special Hajj travelers – concerns have been raised about adherence to Indonesian Hajj Law, which limits the special Hajj quota to 8% of the total. In 2024, Indonesia ultimately utilized a quota of 213,320 for regular Hajj pilgrims and 27,680 for special Hajj pilgrims.
Allegations of Mismanagement and Financial Loss
The KPK alleges that the policies enacted during Yaqut’s tenure resulted in approximately 8,400 regular Hajj pilgrims, who had been on the waiting list for over 14 years, being denied the opportunity to travel in 2024 despite the availability of the additional quota. The agency estimates potential state losses of IDR 1 trillion (approximately $63 million USD) as a result of the alleged mismanagement.
The investigation has already led to the seizure of assets, including houses, vehicles, and US dollars, linked to the case. According to reports, investigators are tracing the flow of funds to determine the extent of the alleged corruption.
The unfolding investigation raises serious questions about transparency and fairness in the allocation of this vital religious resource, and the KPK’s continued scrutiny signals a commitment to holding those responsible accountable.
