Activists Rally Against Rejection of Dog and Cat Meat Trade Ban
Animal rights activists are turning up the heat after Indonesia’s House of Representatives rejected a proposal to ban dog and cat meat trade.
The rejection, rooted in cultural and consumer arguments, has sparked a backlash among advocacy groups.
A Controversial Decision Sparks Outrage
The House Legislation Body (Baleg) dismissed the proposed ban from its medium-term 2025–2029 legislative agenda. Baleg argued that some ethnic groups in Indonesia still consume dog meat, making a specific ban unnecessary.
Firman Soebagyo, a Baleg member, suggested existing laws on animal welfare suffice. “Not all suggestions from NGOs will be accepted and included in the long list,” Firman said, defending the decision.
However, animal welfare organizations find this rationale troubling. Karin Franken of Jakarta Animal Aid Network (JAAN) blasted the rejection as illogical, pointing to public safety and animal rights concerns.
“We will not stay silent. We will continue to fight for this,” she declared, underscoring the coalition’s commitment to pursuing legislative change.
Calls for Progress Amid Global Shifts
Adrian Hane of Dog Meat Free Indonesia (DMFI) highlighted the global trend of banning dog and cat meat consumption.
Citing South Korea’s recent ban, Adrian urged Indonesia to follow suit. “Almost every country in the world has banned it,” he noted, framing the issue as a matter of international alignment.
Hardiyanto Kenneth, an animal lover and Jakarta Legislative Council member, also criticized the decision, calling it a step backward. “It’s funny—how could it be removed?” he asked, pledging to push for local regulations aligning with animal welfare principles.
A Fight Far from Over
For activists, the House’s decision is a hurdle, not the finish line. They vow to amplify public awareness and press for comprehensive protections. As Karin Franken aptly summarized, “The battle for humane treatment isn’t over—it’s just beginning.”
The decision’s ripple effects are undeniable, foreshadowing continued debates over culture, ethics, and modern animal rights.
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