The Jakarta administration has prohibited the slaughtering of animals within a 1-kilometer radius from an equestrian facility in Pulomas, East Jakarta, during Idul Adha (Islamic Day of Sacrifice) on Aug 22.

The move aimed at preventing the spread of anthrax among horses set to compete in the 2018 Asian Games.

The restriction, which is stipulated in Jakarta Governor Instruction No. 123/2017, will affect 35 mosques in Kayu Putih, Rawamangun, Pulogadung, Jati, Kelapa Gading Barat and Kelapa Gading Timur subdistricts.

Residents who wish to slaughter cattle for Idul Adha are suggested to go to city-owned slaughterhouse PD Dharma Jaya headquarters in Cakung, East Jakarta.

Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan called on residents to respect the city’s decision as the multisport event did not occur every year.

"Indonesia last hosted the event 56 years ago. Host nations (of multisport events) across the globe have the same regulation,” he said on Tuesday.

Read also: City to close schools during Asian Games to ease traffic

Nawawi, a caretaker at Jami Al-Ilyas mosque located across from the equestrian facility, said mosque officials were disappointed about the ban but had no choice but to accept it.

He has informed surrounding residents of the policy, he said. “If the ban is only for this year, it’s okay.” (ami/wit)