First Hearing for Hajj Quota Corruption Case, Gus Yaqut Asks Public for Prayers

Religious Affairs Minister for the 2020-2024 period, Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, also known as Gus Yaqut, stated that he is ready to put his trust in God as he undergoes his first trial on Tuesday (11/8/2026). He asked for prayers so that the entire legal process runs smoothly. This was said by Gus Yaqut regarding the first hearing of the hajj quota corruption case at the Central Jakarta District Court on Tuesday (11/8/2026). The hearing is scheduled to feature the reading of the indictment by the Public Prosecutor from the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). ‘God willing, I am ready, God willing, I am ready,’ he told the media. When asked about what he would convey in the trial, Gus Yaqut chose not to mention it. He asked the public to pray that the trial process goes well. ‘I won’t talk about that now. Just pray that this trial goes well and smoothly. Pray, and all that is true will be revealed,’ said Gus Yaqut. He also confirmed that he is in good health. Gus Yaqut also emphasised that he will be cooperative throughout the legal process. ‘Of course, I will be cooperative,’ he said. Gus Yaqut then affirmed his attitude of tawakal, or surrendering the outcome of the legal process to Allah SWT. ‘We put our trust in God, we surrender to Allah,’ he said. Meanwhile, Gus Yaqut’s wife, Eny Retno, who accompanied her husband, also asked for prayers. She fully respects the ongoing legal process. ‘Please pray for us, everyone. We hope the trial proceeds well and smoothly. We fully respect the ongoing legal process. We hope to receive a good and fair trial. Please pray for us,’ said Eny. The reading of the indictment against Gus Yaqut was separated from three other defendants, namely former Special Staff to the Religious Affairs Minister Isfhah Abidal Aziz, also known as Gus Alex, former Chairman of the Hajj and Umrah Travel Association (Kesthuri) Asrul Aziz Taba, and Operational Director of PT Makassar Toraja (Maktour) Ismail Adham.