Jakarta bans consumption of dog meat and generates controversy

Since Monday, the sale and consumption of meat from dogs, cats or any animal that transmits rabies is now banned in Jakarta.

The text, signed by the governor of Jakarta, Pramono Anung, however, provides for a transitional period of six months before the application of this controversial ban.

“This ban should not exist,” lamented Alfindo, 36, interviewed before the announcement. “God created (the dog) to be eaten. Don’t focus on the negative aspects, take into account the benefits!”, he said.

Some communities are convinced that the consumption of dog meat increases the number of blood platelets, which makes it a medicine against dengue.

For others, the ban will not end the trade in this red meat, which is, however, more expensive than beef.

“We cannot eliminate it overnight because it is a tradition,” said 43-year-old Sunggul Sagala.