Medan Mayor Denies Banning Non-Halal Meat Sales, Offers Traders Free Market Stalls

Medan Mayor Rico Waas has denied the viral narrative claiming he prohibited the trade of non-halal meat. Rico stated that he would instead reorganise and provide free market stalls for meat traders.

“I once again affirm that there is no prohibition in the circular letter. We will also accommodate all traders, provide them with facilities, so that things can be better organised, more professional, and improved. I have already said that besides providing facilities, we will also give them free market stalls,” Rico said on Monday (23/2/2026).

Rico added that he would welcome suggestions regarding selling locations for non-halal meat. According to him, the designated locations for non-halal meat sales, namely Pasar Petisah and Pasar Sambu, are still under consideration for expansion.

“The point is we also want to receive input so we can create the best outcome for everyone. The locations will develop — those were just initial options. We will find better ones. Closer, more effective — we will work on it together,” he added.

Regarding criticism from various community organisations, Rico said he remained open to dialogue. He reiterated that there was no ban on the sale of non-halal meat.

“We are open to dialogue with all parties. We are not prohibiting sales. We simply want to organise things better. The point is we will accommodate all of these views. We must uphold the principle of justice for everyone, which is why I say once again — there is no ban,” he said.