Sultan Abdurrahman, Jakarta – Indonesia's Jakarta provincial government has officially banned the sale and consumption of meat from animals that can transmit rabies, including dogs and cats, in the capital city.
The move comes amid growing public health concerns over rabies and animal welfare. The regulation was signed into law by Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo on Monday, November 24, 2025.
The ban is outlined in Gubernatorial Regulation Number 36 of 2025, which prohibits the trade, slaughter, and consumption of meat from rabies-transmitting animals (RTAs).
"This regulation can now take effect," Pramono said in a written statement on Tuesday, November 25, emphasizing the government's commitment to public health and animal protection.
The regulation targets both individuals and businesses. It bars the sale of live animals, raw or processed meat, and other products derived from RTAs. It also prohibits the slaughter of dogs, cats, monkeys, bats, civets, and similar animals for consumption.
Administrative sanctions for violations include written warnings, confiscation of animals and meat products, closure of business premises, and revocation of business permits.
The announcement follows a meeting between Governor Pramono and animal protection activists on October 13, 2025, during which he pledged to enact the ban within a month. The policy is part of broader efforts to reduce public health risks and align Jakarta with international standards on animal welfare.
Animal rights groups have long raised concerns about the illegal dog meat trade in Jakarta. Marry Ferdinandes, Chief Operating Officer of the Dog Meat Free Indonesia (DMFI) Coalition, said the city still houses several large slaughterhouses, particularly in Cawang and Cibubur.
According to DMFI investigations, around 9,000 dogs are supplied to Jakarta's slaughterhouses every month, mainly sourced from West Java and Bali.
Marry emphasized the public health risks associated with consuming non-farm animal meat.
"The consumption of these animals increases the likelihood of rabies transmission. Jakarta, as the capital and a role model city, must set an example," she said.
As a veterinarian, she added that the ban is crucial not only for animal welfare but also for the safety of residents and visitors.
The regulation reflects a growing global trend to restrict the trade and consumption of meat from animals that pose public health risks. Similar measures have been implemented in other countries to curb rabies, protect animal welfare, and ensure food safety standards.
Jakarta's move is expected to strengthen awareness of zoonotic diseases and encourage more humane treatment of animals across Indonesia.
Source: https://en.tempo.co/read/2068512/jakarta-now-bans-sale-consumption-of-dog-and-cat-mea