For Yudi, Sacrificial Slaughter Is Not About Money, But Worship and Togetherness

JAKARTA - The Eid al-Adha 1447 Hijriah celebration is a busy time for Yudi (57). The retired ambulance driver from a hospital in Bogor has once again taken up his seasonal role as a sacrificial slaughterer in his local community. Since morning, Yudi has been at the slaughter site in Dramaga, Bogor Regency, alongside other Eid committee members. Occasionally, Yudi guides other residents assisting with the cutting and skinning of sacrificial animals. His years of experience have earned him trust to handle the slaughter process. Yudi says he has been a slaughterer every Eid al-Adha for a long time. “Initially, I just helped hold the animals and clean up. Over time, I learned from senior slaughterers until I could do it myself,” Yudi said at the site on Wednesday, 27 May 2026. According to Yudi, being a slaughterer is not just about courage. Technique and experience are needed to ensure the slaughter is swift, safe, and does not cause undue suffering to the animal. He also pays attention to the animal’s position to ensure a smooth process. Before slaughtering, Yudi usually recites the basmalah and takbir. “Always say ‘Bismillahi Allahu Akbar’ before slaughtering,” he said.