Religious Affairs Minister Reports to KPK Over Alleged Gratification from Private Jet Use

Minister of Religious Affairs (Menag) Nasaruddin Umar received a private jet facility from former Chairman of the Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) Oesman Sapta Odang (OSO) when he was invited to inaugurate the Balai Sarkiah in Takalar, South Sulawesi. Nasaruddin reported the facility he received to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK).

“I came here to report that matter (riding the jet) and, thankfully, everything went smoothly,” Nasaruddin said at the KPK’s ACLC Building in South Jakarta on Monday (23/2/2026).

Nasaruddin expressed hope that his actions would set an example for Ministry of Religious Affairs staff. He urged other parties to follow suit by reporting to the KPK if they receive anything that could potentially constitute gratification.

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

Reason for Using the Private Jet

Nasaruddin also explained his reason for using the private jet. He said there were no more flights available to the event location at that time. The inauguration itself took place on Sunday (15/2). The Balai Sarkiah building, located in Sabintang subdistrict, serves as a centre for religious and social activities in South Sulawesi.

“Because at 11 pm there are obviously no more flights there, and I had to return the next morning for preparations for the isbat session,” Nasaruddin said.

He acknowledged having reported to the KPK several times over alleged gratification he had received, including regarding the private jet.

“This time I came again to report on my trip carrying out duties in South Sulawesi, in Makassar, using that special aircraft,” he said.

KPK’s Response

KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo confirmed that the commission had received Nasaruddin’s report. Budi said Nasaruddin conveyed three points in his report.

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

Budi said the step taken by Nasaruddin in reporting to the KPK was hoped to be followed by others. The incident was also described as a learning opportunity, particularly for the private sector, to refrain from giving gifts to state officials.

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

The KPK also indicated it may seek information from OSO. The commission will also verify the completeness of Nasaruddin’s report.

“During the analysis, it is possible to request additional information or statements from certain parties,” Budi said when asked about the possibility of summoning OSO as the provider of the jet facility.

Minister Not Subject to Criminal Charges

KPK Director of Gratification and Public Services Arif Waluyo stated that Nasaruddin reported the jet facility from OSO within 30 days. He said this meant the criminal provisions regarding alleged gratification would not apply.

“He reported within 30 working days in accordance with Article 12C of the Anti-Corruption Law, which also stipulates that if it is within 30 working days, then Article 12B does not apply,” Arif said at the KPK’s ACLC Building.

Article 12B of the Anti-Corruption Law states:

1. Any gratification to a civil servant or state official shall be deemed bribery if it is related to their position and contrary to their obligations or duties, with the following provisions:

1. For amounts of Rp 10,000,000 or more, the burden of proof that the gratification does not constitute bribery lies with the recipient;
2. For amounts less than Rp 10,000,000, the burden of proof that the gratification constitutes bribery lies with the public prosecutor.

2. The penalty for a civil servant or state official as referred to in paragraph (1) shall be life imprisonment or a minimum of 4 years and a maximum of 20 years’ imprisonment, and a fine of no less than Rp 200,000,000 and no more than Rp 1,000,000,000.

Article 12C states:

1. The provisions referred to in Article 12B paragraph (1) shall not apply if the recipient reports the gratification received to the Corruption Eradication Commission.
2. The submission of the report as referred to in paragraph (1) must be made by the gratification recipient no later than 30 working days from the date the gratification was received.

Arif added that the KPK has 30 days to analyse Nasaruddin’s report. He said the commission would determine the consequences arising from the private jet facility.

“Later, if we issue a decree, for example to provide compensation or replacement funds, we will convey through the decree that ‘this amount must be reimbursed.’ He must comply with that,” he said.