Indonesia’s Ministry of Agriculture’s Role in Promoting Animal Welfare

Animal welfare is an important issue that continues to be of concern at both national and international levels

In Indonesia, the Ministry of Agriculture plays a key role in formulating policies and supporting various initiatives related to animal protection and welfare.

Through a series of regulations and collaboration with various parties, the Ministry of Agriculture affirms its commitment to ensuring the humane treatment of animals in all aspects of life. This includes everything from farms to pets.

At the Animal Welfare International Conference held on 7th December 2023 by Animal Welfare Indonesia, drh. Hastho Yuliyanto, M.M as Animal Welfare Coordinator-Directorate of Veterinary Public Health, Ministry of Agriculture Indonesia was one of the Keynote speakers.

One of the significant steps taken by the Ministry of Agriculture is the revision of livestock-related laws aimed at improving animal welfare standards.

Stricter regulations are expected to ensure animal welfare at every stage of the production process, including the treatment of livestock in slaughterhouses

This commitment reflects the government’s real steps in protecting animal rights and improving the quality of products produced for consumers.

To achieve better animal welfare, the Ministry of Agriculture does not work alone. Through strategic partnerships with government agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), community organisations and industry players, the Ministry is building a strong foundation for sustainable policy implementation

This collaboration not only aims to strengthen regulations, but also to increase the capacity of stakeholders to effectively implement animal welfare principles.

Indonesia is also active in various global initiatives related to animal welfare. Participation in international forums provides an opportunity for the country to enrich domestic policies with best practices from different parts of the world.

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It is also an important means to raise awareness of the importance of animal welfare, both among domestic stakeholders and the global community.

Animal welfare is not only the responsibility of the government, but also of the wider community

Therefore, one of the focuses of the Ministry of Agriculture is to raise public awareness on the importance of treating animals well.

This includes education on the treatment of pets, ethical animal trade, and efforts to stop animal abuse.

With an inclusive approach, the Ministry hopes to encourage a change in people’s attitudes towards animals, resulting in a more caring and humane society.

Animal welfare issues are integral to food security and public health

The Ministry of Agriculture emphasises that animal welfare plays an important role in maintaining food safety and quality, as well as contributing to public health.

Read Also : Farm Animal Welfare: Quality Products, Safe Consumers

Animals that are treated well will produce safer and healthier food products, which in turn helps the government’s efforts to tackle malnutrition and stunting in the community.

Indonesia is a disaster-prone country, so preparedness to protect animals during emergencies is a priority.

The Ministry of Agriculture has developed an emergency response plan that covers animal welfare, especially in the face of natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods.

This plan involves rescuing animals and providing safe shelter for farm animals and pets.

The Ministry of Agriculture is actively revising and refining existing policies to adapt to new challenges in animal welfare.

This is done in consultation with various stakeholders and taking into account developments at the international level.

The revision of laws and development of new regulations aim to ensure better protection for animals and improve welfare standards in Indonesia.

Indonesia’s Ministry of Agriculture has demonstrated a strong commitment to promoting animal welfare through regulation, collaboration and public awareness.

With the upcoming revision of the livestock law, as well as partnerships with various parties, the government hopes to create a more humane environment for animals, while maintaining food quality and public health 

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These steps confirm that animal welfare is an integral part of sustainable national development.

If you would like to listen to the full presentation from Mr drh. Hastho Yuliyanto, M.M, please visit YouTube Animal Welfare Indonesia.

The presentation file can also be downloaded at the following link.