Istiqlal distributes sacrificial meat to Ponpes to institutions, no direct distribution

Officers distribute sacrificial meat to be distributed at the Istiqlal Mosque, Jakarta, Saturday (7/6/2025). ANTARA FOTO/Muhammad Adimaja/rwa.

JAKARTA - Minister of Religion who is also the Grand Imam of the Istiqlal Mosque, Nasaruddin Umar, said that the distribution of sacrificial meat from the Istiqlal Mosque this year is focused on pesantren, orphanages, Islamic universities, and Istiqlal-based institutions.

"So here we don't share with the public. Yes, there is direct assistance given to the boarding schools that we have data on the best, and that's where they will be slaughtered, slaughtering the animals," said the Minister of Religion as quoted by ANTARA, Tuesday, May 26.

He explained that the distribution pattern was chosen so that the distribution of sacrificial meat was more orderly, safe, and targeted.

Thus, there is no direct division at the Istiqlal Mosque to avoid various risks such as competition, encouragement, and mass accumulation.

"It used to be like that, but it turns out that there are many problems that arise, yes. Encourage, grab, and all sorts. In the end, some of them fell unconscious, all sorts. Well, I think we choose the safest way," he said.

Nasaruddin Umar ensured that the slaughter of sacrificial animals in the largest mosque in Southeast Asia was carried out with a hygienic system and did not pollute the river or the surrounding environment.

"Not a single drop of blood or waste goes into the river. Everything has been prepared with a good management system," he said.

Istiqlal has modern and hygienic slaughter facilities with large capacity. At one time, the slaughter process can be carried out in several places at once. In fact, it is capable of slaughtering up to 200 heads a day.

He ensured that all slaughter waste was managed properly so as not to pollute the surrounding environment of the mosque.

Nasaruddin Umar said the implementation of Eid al-Adha 1447 Hijriahi at the Istiqlal Mosque carried the theme "Spirit of Sacrifice Caring for Nature and Humanity".

The theme is in line with the Ministry of Religion's major themes on eco-theology and the theology of love.