Bandung (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Agriculture, through the Directorate General of Livestock and Animal Health, officially launched the Cage-Free Layer Production System Guidelines during a Seminar and Socialization event held at the Novotel Hotel Bandung several days ago.
The event was attended by around 40 participants, including representatives from local governments, universities, poultry industry players, as well as layer farmers from the Bandung and West Bandung regions.
The launch of this guideline book is part of a series of phased programs between the Directorate General of Livestock and Animal Health of the Ministry of Agriculture and Catalyst Co. Ltd. aimed at promoting enhanced animal welfare and the development of cage-free layer production systems in Indonesia.
The series of activities included the General Animal Welfare e-learning program in July 2024, the Training of Trainers (ToT) on Layer Hen Welfare and Cage-Free Production Systems in December 2024 in Jakarta and Sukabumi, a follow-up ToT in September 2025 in Banten, the drafting of the guideline book in October 2025 in Depok, and culminating in the Seminar, Socialization, and Launching of the Guideline Book in Bandung.
Hary Suhada, Director of Breeding and Livestock Production, conveyed his appreciation and gratitude to Dr. Wachara, President of Catalyst Co. Ltd., for the support, commitment, and collaboration that have been established thus far. According to him, the presence of this guideline book is a strategic response to global poultry industry dynamics that increasingly emphasize food safety, sustainability, and animal welfare.
“Indonesia’s poultry industry continues to experience significant growth. However, along with rising consumer awareness and international market demands, there is a need for clear technical references and operational standards. This guideline is expected to serve as a reference for all stakeholders in implementing cage-free layer production systems correctly and sustainably,” Hary said.
He added that the growing global commitment to cage-free eggs has direct implications for the domestic market, while also opening opportunities to enhance competitiveness for national industry players. Therefore, this guideline is expected to provide certainty in standards, production governance, and best practices that can be gradually adapted based on technical and socio-economic conditions in the field.
Meanwhile, Dr. Wachara congratulated the Government of Indonesia on launching the nation’s first national guideline for cage-free layer production systems. He described this step as an inspiring achievement and an important foundation for the development of future standards and cage-free certification.
“By launching these guidelines, Indonesia is demonstrating real leadership in animal welfare and sustainable agriculture, while also strengthening its competitiveness and setting a benchmark for the region. This is a proud moment not only for Indonesia, but for all of us in ASEAN,” Dr. Wachara said. He also reaffirmed Catalyst’s commitment to continue supporting Indonesia in its journey to transform the poultry industry toward more sustainable systems.
