Religious Affairs Minister Explains Reason for Taking Private Jet to Inaugurate Sarkiah Hall in Takalar

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar has reported to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) regarding the private jet facility provided by former Regional Representative Council (DPD) Chairman Oesman Sapta Odang (OSO) when he travelled to the inauguration of the Sarkiah Hall in Takalar Regency, South Sulawesi. Nasaruddin said he took the private jet because there were no other aircraft available.

“Because at 11pm there are obviously no more flights there, and the next morning I had to return because there were preparations for the isbat hearing,” Nasaruddin said at the KPK’s Anti-Corruption Learning Centre building in South Jakarta on Monday (23/2/2026).

He acknowledged he had reported to the KPK several times regarding suspected gratification he had received, including the matter of the private jet.

“This time I have come again to convey matters related to my trip carrying out duties in South Sulawesi, in Makassar, using that special aircraft,” he said.

Previously, the Ministry of Religious Affairs had also explained the private jet matter. The ministry said the jet was provided by OSO, who was the event organiser.

“Mr OSO specifically invited and hoped that the Sarkiah Hall would be inaugurated by the Religious Affairs Minister. Mr OSO took the initiative to prepare a private jet for the Minister so he could attend amid 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 (19/2).

“All modes of travel transportation were prepared by the organiser,” he added.

He said the inauguration took place on Sunday (15/2). The Sarkiah Hall, located in Sabintang Sub-district, serves as a centre for religious and social activities in South Sulawesi.

Thobib said Nasaruddin expressed appreciation for the OSO family’s contributions to community empowerment. He said Nasaruddin hoped the inaugurated building would be beneficial for religious education and the community’s economic welfare.

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