Jakarta – Oesman Sapta Odang (OSO), Chairman of the Hanura Party, has publicly defended providing a private jet to Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar for a trip to Takalar, South Sulawesi, earlier this month. The move comes after Minister Umar reported the incident to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), prompting an investigation into potential gratification. OSO maintains there was no wrongdoing, stating he simply offered a convenience to a guest invited to inaugurate a religious facility.
The controversy centers around Minister Umar’s use of OSO’s private jet to attend the inauguration of the Balai Sarkiah Building on February 15, 2026. The KPK is now analyzing the report filed by Minister Umar, and has not ruled out the possibility of questioning OSO as part of the investigation. This situation raises questions about the boundaries of hospitality and potential conflicts of interest for public officials, particularly concerning the acceptance of gifts or services that could be perceived as influencing official duties.
Minister Umar’s Explanation and Self-Reporting
Minister Nasaruddin Umar proactively reported the incident to the KPK, emphasizing his commitment to transparency and anti-corruption efforts. He explained that he accepted the ride because no commercial flights were available at the late hour of 11:00 PM, and he needed to return to Jakarta the following morning for preparations for an isbat (determination) meeting regarding the start of a religious month. He stated he has previously reported similar instances of receiving potential gifts to the KPK, demonstrating a willingness to adhere to ethical guidelines. “I came here to convey that, about traveling to South Sulawesi…using a special plane,” Umar said, according to reporting from CNN Indonesia.
OSO’s Response: “What’s Wrong With That?”
OSO, when contacted on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, dismissed any suggestion of impropriety. “What’s wrong with that? We invited him. We were inaugurating a mosque, a place of religious study. What’s the problem?” he asked, as reported by DetikNews. He emphasized that Minister Umar’s presence was not related to his official duties, but rather to offer a prayer at the inauguration. OSO further questioned how offering a ride to a fellow Muslim could be considered a form of gratification. “What gratification? Arrive on, between Muslims, a Muslim can’t help another Muslim?”
KPK Investigation Underway
The KPK has confirmed it is analyzing Minister Umar’s report and is considering summoning OSO for questioning. KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo stated that the analysis will involve gathering additional information and potentially requesting statements from relevant parties. “In the analysis, it is possible to request additional information or statements from certain parties,” Prasetyo said, according to DetikNews. The KPK will assess the completeness of the report before determining the next steps and the status of the alleged gift.
The incident highlights the ongoing scrutiny faced by Indonesian officials regarding potential conflicts of interest and the importance of adhering to ethical standards. The KPK’s investigation will aim to determine whether the provision of the private jet constitutes a violation of anti-corruption laws. The outcome of the investigation could set a precedent for future cases involving gifts and services offered to public officials.
As the KPK continues its analysis, the public awaits further clarification on the circumstances surrounding Minister Umar’s travel arrangements and whether any wrongdoing occurred. The investigation is expected to shed light on the boundaries of acceptable hospitality and the responsibilities of public officials in maintaining transparency and accountability.
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