Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Explains 'Hifdzun Nafsi' Principle at Pre-Trial Hearing on Hajj Quota Case

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has affirmed that the safety of hajj pilgrims was the primary consideration in determining hajj quotas, stating he prioritised the principle of hifdzun nafsi — the protection of human life from physical and spiritual harm.

Yaqut made the remarks after attending his first pre-trial hearing at the South Jakarta District Court on Tuesday (24/2/2026). He filed the pre-trial motion to challenge the legality of his designation as a suspect in an alleged corruption case involving the allocation of hajj quotas.

“I also need to convey that the matter I am facing is one we all know about — the hajj quota. The sole consideration I made when determining the quota allocation was hifdzun nafsi, safeguarding the lives of pilgrims,” Yaqut told reporters on Tuesday.

Yaqut explained that the hajj quota policy during his tenure as minister was informed by conditions in Saudi Arabia. “It was due to the limited capacity available in Saudi Arabia,” he said.

Additionally, Yaqut explained that he attended the pre-trial hearing in person to exercise his legal rights. He rejected suggestions that the pre-trial motion constituted an attempt to obstruct the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK).

“This is not intended to obstruct, let alone resist the legal process — absolutely not. Rather, I am exercising my rights, just as you all witnessed the KPK exercising its right not to attend today’s hearing,” Yaqut said.