Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Muhajir Effendy announced that Indonesia would receive shipments of sacrificial meat from Hajj pilgrims in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.
“The minister has approved this initiative of agriculture and relevant authorities both in Indonesia and Saudi Arabia,” Effendy stated after Eid al-Adha prayers at the Central Muhammadiyah Office (PP) in Menteng, Jakarta, on Monday.
Effendy explained that the meat comes from sacrificial animals offered by Indonesian pilgrims during the 2024 Hajj. The animals were slaughtered at facilities in Mecca and surrounding areas.
While the ministry awaits detailed information regarding the meat’s arrival and total weight, Effendy assured that the meat will undergo clinical inspection for hygiene and safety during packaging before being distributed to the Indonesian public.
The distribution will focus on the poor and underprivileged students in Islamic boarding schools.
Effendy also urged sacrificial organizing committees across Indonesia to prioritize cleanliness and adherence to Islamic law in the handling and distribution of sacrificial meat. He emphasized the importance of using environmentally friendly packaging, such as leaves or tree fronds, and ensuring any plastic used is clean and adequately disposed of.
This appeal aligns with a circular issued by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK) on June 13, 2024, which advocates for celebrating Eid al-Adha without plastic waste. The circular encourages reusable containers and calls on governors, mayors, and district heads to instruct sacrificial meat distribution committees to avoid using plastic bags.
