Jakarta Bans Dog and Cat Meat Trade to Protect Public Health

KBRN, Jakarta: The Jakarta Provincial Administration has officially enacted a regulation banning the trade and slaughter of dogs, cats, and other rabies-transmitting animals (HPR) for consumption, in a move framed as an urgent public health measure.

Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo announced the enforcement of the gubernatorial regulation, effective Monday, November 24, 2025.

“This regulation has been in effect since November 24, 2025,” Pramono confirmed in a video posted to his official Instagram account, @pramonoanungw, on Tuesday, November 25.

As reported by Antara, the provisions are detailed in Gubernatorial Regulation No. 36/2025. Article 27A institutes a comprehensive ban on the sale and purchase of rabies-transmitting animals for food purposes. The ban applies to animals such as dogs, cats, monkeys, bats, civets, and similar species, as well as their meat or products, whether raw or processed.

Article 27B further prohibits the slaughter or killing of these animals when intended for consumption.

The regulation also sets out a strict enforcement protocol. Initial violations will result in a written warning and the seizure of the animals for observation, particularly if they show symptoms of rabies. Repeat violations after a warning will result in the seizure of the animals or the products being traded.

If violations continue after seizure, authorities will order the closure of the business premises involved. The highest penalty for persistent offenders is the revocation of the business license.

Governor Pramono described the regulation as a necessary step to protect public health. “Hopefully, this can safeguard and improve the health of Jakarta’s citizens,” he said. ***