Controversy over Janitor Fish: Buried Alive Draws Criticism, Repurposed as Livestock Feed Deemed Dangerous

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – The method employed by the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government to eradicate janitor fish has sparked controversy. The practice of burying the fish while they are still alive has been criticised as inhumane. On the other hand, the suggestion to repurpose them as livestock feed is also considered risky. The DKI Provincial Government previously conducted intensive captures of janitor fish from rivers in five administrative areas of Jakarta to maintain cleanliness and the aquatic ecosystem. However, the eradication method has now come under scrutiny. Secretary of the MUI Fatwa Commission, KH Miftahul Huda, stated that burying live fish contradicts sharia principles and animal welfare. He explained that burying fish alive violates two main principles, namely rahmatan lil ’alamin and animal welfare (kesrawan). According to him, this method has the potential to cause unnecessary suffering to the animals. Nevertheless, the MUI still views the janitor fish control policy as having public benefit value. “It aligns with the objectives of sharia, falling under the category of modern ecological necessities,” said Kiai Miftah, as reported from the MUI website, Saturday (18/4/2026). Additionally, the policy is seen to support the principle of hifz an-nasl or the sustainability of living creatures. However, he emphasised that killing animals must still be done in a proper manner. As a solution, KH Miftahul Huda encouraged that janitor fish should not only be eradicated but also utilised economically and ecologically.