Ban on dog meat sparks controversy in Indonesia

Alfindo Hutagaol savors grilled dog meat in Jakarta along with rice and peppers, a dish whose sale is now banned in the Indonesian capital. This vast Asian archipelago is one of the few countries that still permit the sale of dog and cat meat, however, a campaign denouncing this practice has gained ground. Muslims, the majority in Indonesia, do not consume this meat, popular among certain minorities. Since Monday, the sale and consumption of dog, cat, or any rabies-transmitting animal meat are now prohibited in Jakarta. The decree, signed on Monday by Jakarta’s governor, Pramono Anung, includes a six-month transition period before the implementation of this controversial ban.