Ministry of Religious Affairs Explains Private Jet Use During Minister's Inauguration of Balai Sarkiah in Takalar

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar travelled by private jet to the inauguration of the Balai Sarkiah building in Takalar Regency, South Sulawesi. The Ministry of Religious Affairs stated that the private jet was provided by former Regional Representative Council (DPD) Chairman Oesman Sapta Odang (OSO), who organised the event.

“Mr OSO specifically invited and expressed his hope that the Balai Sarkiah would be inaugurated by the Religious Affairs Minister. Mr OSO took the initiative to arrange a private jet for the Minister so that he could attend amidst his packed schedule,” said the Head of the Ministry’s Public Relations and Communications Bureau, Thobib Al Asyhar, as quoted from the Ministry’s official website on Thursday (19 February 2026).

“All modes of transport for the journey were arranged by the organiser,” he added.

Thobib said the inauguration took place on Sunday (15 February). The Balai Sarkiah building, located in Sabintang sub-district, serves as a centre for religious and social activities in South Sulawesi.

Thobib stated that Nasaruddin expressed his appreciation for the OSO family’s contributions to community empowerment. He said the Minister hoped the inaugurated building would prove beneficial for religious education and the economic welfare of the community.

“The Minister conveyed that the government greatly values the role of community leaders who independently build religious infrastructure. The Balai Sarkiah is not merely a building, but a symbol of collaboration to strengthen the values of social care within the community,” Thobib said.

The inauguration of the Balai Sarkiah building was attended by OSO and his family, Takalar Regent Mohammad Firdaus Daeng Manye, and South Sulawesi government officials. The event was also attended by local religious and community figures.

The ceremony began with the signing of an inaugural plaque by the Foundation’s Board of Trustees Chairwoman, Serviati Oesman, accompanied by Nasaruddin. Thobib noted that the event also included the presentation of a National Zakat Agency (Baznas) decree to the Zakat Collection Unit (UPZ) of the KN Foundation.