KUPANG, Indonesia—The JAAN Domestic Indonesia Foundation, in partnership with Humane World for Animals (formerly called Humane Society International), proudly announces the official launch of our “United Against Rabies: Together for Animal Welfare” program in Nusa Tenggara Timur province. This is the first-ever program aimed at transforming rabies control and prevention through education and the improvement of animal welfare across the NTT province. The program aims to reduce the number of rabies cases through various initiatives, including tackling the dog meat trade which plays an integral role in the spread of rabies.
The program will initially focus on the pilot areas of Kota Kupang City, West Manggarai District and Belu District.
The launch event features esteemed speakers from JAAN, representatives from the Government of NTT province and key partners involved in the program. This initiative marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts to enhance public health and promote better animal welfare in the region.
Program highlights:
- Promoting animal welfare, rabies control and prevention as well as responsible pet ownership by collaborating with government agencies, religious leaders and local communities to reduce rabies transmission and improve animal well-being.
- Conducting research in partnership with local universities and veterinary schools to map rabies prevalence and animal welfare perceptions in pilot areas, to guide targeted interventions and policy development.
- Providing veterinary training on rabies prevention and control measures, including conducting a dog population survey and rabies mass vaccination.
- Raising public awareness within local communities about the role the dog meat trade plays in spreading rabies and the risks of the trade.
Julie Sanders, ending dog meat director at Humane World for Animals, said: "We are proud to support this program, which aligns with our mission to advance animal welfare through ending the dog meat trade in Asia. The collaboration in NTT is a model for effective community engagement and education to end rabies and improve animal welfare."
Karin Franken, CEO of JAAN Domestic Indonesia Foundation, said: "NTT is now a very popular tourist destination and rabies prevention and control through animal welfare education is more crucial than ever. With the help of Humane World for Animals, we are excited to officially launch this program to ensure the safety and well-being of both residents and visitors."
Statements from other key stakeholders:
Head of the Animal Health Department of NTT Province remarked: "This program is vital for our efforts to control rabies and improve animal health. We are committed to working with JAAN Domestic and our partners to achieve these goals."
The Education Department of NTT Province added: "Educating our communities about rabies prevention and animal welfare is key to ensuring a healthier future. We are excited to be part of this transformative program."
The city mayor of Kupang City commented: "As a growing tourist destination, Kupang City is committed to public health and safety. This program is a significant step forward in protecting our citizens and visitors alike.”
Davina Veronica, Eastern Indonesia tourism ambassador from the Ministry of Tourism Indonesia and founder and partner of non-profit Natha Satwa Nusantara, said: "This program is an amazing initiative for raising awareness about rabies prevention through animal welfare education. It's crucial for protecting both our communities and the animals who are part of our ecosystem."
Dr. Merry Ferdinandez, COO and program director, added: "Our key activities are designed to support the Animal Health Department of NTT province in eradicating rabies. By promoting animal welfare education and conducting research in collaboration with the Veterinary School of Nusa Cendana University, we aim to make a lasting impact."
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