Religious Affairs Minister Reports Private Jet Trip to KPK as Potential Gratification

Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar has reported a suspected case of gratification to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) after travelling on a private jet belonging to former Regional Representative Council (DPD) chairman Oesman Sapta Odang (OSO) to inaugurate the Balai Sarkiah building in Takalar Regency, South Sulawesi.

“I came here to report that matter, and thankfully it has gone smoothly,” Nasaruddin said at the KPK’s Anti-Corruption Learning Centre (ACLC) building in South Jakarta on Monday (23/2/2026).

Nasaruddin said he hoped his actions would serve as an example for Ministry of Religious Affairs staff and others. He expressed his wish that other parties would similarly report to the KPK if they received anything that could potentially constitute gratification.

“That is my resolve — I want to set an example for our subordinates, our staff at every level, all the way to the KPK level. And also perhaps for other state officials; hopefully this can be a lesson for others,” he said.

On the same occasion, KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo confirmed that the anti-corruption body had received the minister’s report. Budi said three key points were conveyed in the disclosure.

“First, that a minister as a state official must have a strong commitment to combating corruption, particularly regarding prevention efforts, one of which is reporting gratification from the outset,” Budi said.

Budi added that Nasaruddin’s decision to report to the KPK was hoped to inspire others to follow suit. The incident was also described as an educational moment, particularly for the private sector, to refrain from offering gifts to state officials.

“Third, this also serves as education for the public and the private sector not to give gifts or other forms of benefits to state officials or civil servants,” he said.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs had previously provided an explanation regarding the private jet. The ministry said the aircraft was provided by former DPD chairman OSO, who organised the event.

“Mr OSO specifically invited and expressed his hope that the Balai Sarkiah would be inaugurated by the minister. Mr OSO took the initiative to arrange a private jet for the minister so he could attend amid his packed schedule,” said Thobib Al Asyhar, Head of the Ministry of Religious Affairs’ Public Relations and Communications Bureau, as quoted from the ministry’s official website on Thursday (19/2).

“All transportation for the journey was arranged by the organiser,” he added.

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

Thobib noted that Nasaruddin expressed appreciation for the OSO family’s contributions to community empowerment. The minister hoped the inaugurated building would benefit religious education and the community’s economic welfare.

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 leaders and community figures.