Mixed Reactions to Dog Meat Ban in Indonesia

Sitting alone at a deserted stall in Jakarta, Alfindo Hutagaol indulged in a meal of rice, green sambal, and grilled dog meat, now prohibited in the Indonesian capital. Indonesia, a Muslim-majority nation, allowing the sale of dog and cat meat, faced a ban by Jakarta authorities on the trading and consumption of rabies-transmitting animals. Although Muslims refrain from consuming dog meat, it remains popular in certain Indonesian communities. The ban, which will undergo a six-month grace period before enforcement, received praise from animal rights advocates who had been pushing for the end of the trade. However, some individuals, like Alfindo, argue against the ban, stating that dog meat has benefits and should not be prohibited.