Responding to Money Laundering Issues, Aldi Taher Jokes About 'Aldi's Money Laundry'

Aldi Taher casually responded to allegations from several netizens who claimed he was involved in money laundering as he developed his business ventures. The presenter and singer is now managing several lines of business, ranging from burgers, hotdogs, coffee, to fried chicken.

When met in the Tendean area of South Jakarta on Tuesday (21/7), Aldi chose to address the issue with his humorous style. He also emphasized that he has never done anything illegal.

"It's up to them what they want to say, the important thing is I’m not dirtying money, that's it. Money laundering means it's clean. It's okay, it's a blessing! What's not allowed? Stealing! Yes, I’m laundering money, God willing, it's a blessing, the money becomes clean, the heart also becomes clean. Cleansing the heart by reading the Qur'an, praying. If it's about dirtying money, then you're in trouble," said Aldi Taher.

1. Aldi Taher's Response to the 'Money Laundering' Allegation

Aldi Taher with short hair © KapanLagi.com/Fikri Alfi Rosyadi

In his statement, Aldi explained the term "money laundering" which he interprets literally as an effort to make money "clean" and then manage it into a growing business. He emphasized the principle of not "dirtying" money in running a business.

Aldi mentioned that he tries to take the path he believes is good, including maintaining a clean heart through worship and work. This response was delivered without leaving behind his characteristic humor.

The statement was made in response to public speculation that arose after his business line expanded. Aldi emphasized that his orientation is to grow through lawful means, not to engage in illegal practices.

2. Joke About 'Aldi's Money Laundry' and Business Expansion

Aldi Taher wears a long-sleeved shirt © KapanLagi.com/Fikri Alfi Rosyadi

Not stopping at the clarification, Aldi again made a joke that lightened the atmosphere of the interview. He mentioned a new business idea called "Aldi's Money Laundry" as a light-hearted response to the allegations directed at him.

"If it's said that Aldi Taher launders money, yes! Money needs to be washed to be clean. I invested 40 million in Aldis Burger, my mother's prayers, kissing my mother's feet, my wife's prayers, the prayers of all the viewers, alhamdulillah it has grown. It's just like Mr. Elon Musk, he expands his business to make Tesla, is he laundering money? Yes! The money is washed, developed again, opening other businesses, later the zakat increases, creating jobs, it's a blessing, right? So is it better to wash money or dirty money?" said Aldi Taher.

After throwing that rhetorical question, Aldi continued with another joke that drew laughter from the journalists present. He linked the term money laundry to the literal meaning of "laundry" as a joke.

"Well, I love you. Later 'Aldi's Money Laundry' will be launching, bro. I want to open a laundry service, make money. Money laundry, right? Haha, that's good. Barakallah. Just don't forget to work, BU (Bismillah Usaha), pray, read the Qur'an," he said.

3. Focus on Developing Business in a Halal Way

Behind the series of jokes, Aldi stated that he wants to focus on expanding his business in a halal manner. He dismissed the assumption that his business is derived from unclear sources and emphasized that everything built is the result of efforts from the team and family support.

According to him, the profits from the business will be used for expansion as well as to create job opportunities. He also mentioned that the more the business develops, the greater the benefits that can be distributed to others, including through zakat.

Aldi reminded the public not to easily believe in unproven accusations. Negative comments on social media, he said, will not stop him from continuing to work and create in the entertainment and business worlds.

(kpl/phi)