Habiburokhman: President Prabowo’s Use of State Budget for Sacrificial Cows is Legal and Sharia-Compliant

Habiburokhman: President Prabowo’s Use of State Budget for Sacrificial Cows is Legal and Sharia-Compliant

May 28, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom News

The Indonesian government’s decision to distribute 1,098 sacrificial cows for the upcoming Idul Adha celebration has sparked public debate regarding the use of the State Budget (APBN). The distribution, carried out through the Presidential Assistance (Banpres) programme, has prompted officials to clarify the legal and religious standing of the initiative.

Legal and Religious Justification

Habiburokhman, Chairman of Commission III of the House of Representatives (DPR RI), asserted that the use of state funds for this programme complies with both national law and Islamic sharia. He pointed to Article 3, Paragraph 1 of Law Number 17 of 2003 on State Finance, which outlines the principles of transparent and responsible financial management for the prosperity of the people.

According to Habiburokhman, the 2026 APBN provides a clear budgetary framework for the President’s social assistance programs. He also noted that the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has previously indicated that such state-funded assistance does not conflict with Islamic principles, framing the initiative as a gesture of support for local cattle farmers and the broader community.

Did You Know? The distribution of 1,098 cows is not a new policy; government officials have confirmed that this practice of using the Presidential Assistance (Banpres) programme to provide sacrificial animals has been a recurring administrative tradition for years.

Clarification from the Palace

Deputy Minister of State Secretary Juri Ardiantoro clarified that the initiative serves as a state-sponsored social assistance programme designed to ensure that communities, particularly those in need, can participate in the Idul Adha festivities. He emphasized that these animals are not for the President’s personal use.

Juri further stated that President Prabowo Subianto continues to perform his personal religious obligations regarding the sacrifice of animals using his own private funds, distinct from the state-funded assistance programme. Regarding concerns about inclusivity, Habiburokhman added that the current administration maintains a consistent focus on supporting various religious communities through similar state policies and assistance programs.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter observes that the controversy highlights the delicate balance between state social welfare functions and public scrutiny of government spending. The government’s emphasis on legal compliance and historical precedent suggests a strategy of institutionalizing social religious support, though future administrations may face continued pressure to maintain absolute transparency regarding the distinction between state and personal religious contributions.

Looking Ahead

As the debate continues, future legislative sessions may see calls for more detailed reporting on the selection criteria for beneficiaries of these state-funded programs. Analysts expect that the government will likely continue to emphasize the social impact of these distributions, specifically focusing on the economic benefits for local cattle farmers. Should public scrutiny persist, the administration may choose to release more granular data on the distribution process to reinforce its commitment to the transparent management of state finances.

Looking Ahead
Sacrificial Cows Habiburokhman

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the use of APBN for sacrificial animals considered illegal?
According to Habiburokhman, This proves not illegal. He cites Law Number 17 of 2003 on State Finance and the 2026 APBN as the legal basis for the Presidential Assistance programme.

Are these 1,098 cows considered the President’s personal sacrifice?
No. Government officials clarified that these are state-funded assistance intended for the public. President Prabowo Subianto performs his own personal sacrifice using his private funds separately.

What is the primary goal of this programme?
The programme aims to provide social assistance to communities, including mosques, religious boarding schools and religious figures, allowing citizens in need to participate in the celebration of Idul Adha.

How do you view the balance between state-sponsored religious social aid and the necessity for fiscal transparency in government programs?