Finance Minister Purbaya Sacrifices Cow Using Personal Funds After Hajj Cancellation

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa attended Eid al-Adha prayers with Finance Ministry staff at the Salahuddin Mosque in the Central Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) office in Jakarta. During the event, he presented an 868-kilogram Simental cross cow to the mosque committee for slaughter and distribution to eligible recipients.

Following the prayers, the State Treasurer confirmed that the funds for the DJP-presented Simental cross cow, as well as another cow sacrificed at his Ciganjur residence, came from his personal finances. “The home sacrifice is also personal funds; there was a decent bonus, so we used that here. Plus, since Hajj didn’t happen, we pooled it here,” Purbaya said after the Eid prayers on Wednesday, 27 May 2026.

Purbaya had previously been scheduled to perform the fifth pillar of Islam this year, but the plan was postponed. “I’m saddened, but it wasn’t meant to be; hopefully next year,” he added.

During the occasion, Purbaya stressed that Eid al-Adha is not merely an annual ritual but an opportunity to strengthen humanity and social justice. The sacrificed animals symbolise a commitment to sharing, particularly with those in need.

Appointed in September 2025, the minister also highlighted that the spirit of sacrifice is closely linked to their role as national finance stewards, sharpening social sensitivity to ensure the national budget is directed towards public welfare, especially vulnerable groups.

This year, the Finance Ministry distributed a total of 486 sacrificial animals — 262 cows and 224 goats — collected through voluntary contributions from 1,790 employees across various first-level units nationwide. Meat distribution will be targeted, in collaboration with official zakat agencies and mosque committees at each location.