JAKARTA – Indonesia is making significant strides toward a more sustainable and welfare-oriented livestock industry through a collaborative initiative between the government and Catalyst organization. The partnership was highlighted at the Training of Trainers (ToT) program on Welfare-Oriented Cage-Free Egg Production Systems held in Jakarta on Wednesday (12/4), aiming to empower farmers with knowledge and skills for adopting cage-free poultry farming practices that are increasingly in demand globally.

The initiative represents a forward-thinking approach to meeting rising consumer expectations while positioning Indonesian producers competitively in domestic and international markets. Sintong HMT Hutasoit, Director of Livestock Breeding and Production at the Ministry of Agriculture, emphasized the strategic importance of this transition.

“With Asia housing 60% of the world’s laying hens, and growing consumer awareness regarding animal welfare, cage-free systems offer innovative opportunities to strengthen brand positioning while responding to evolving market demands,” Sintong explained. “These systems not only enhance animal welfare standards but also significantly boost the competitiveness of Indonesian livestock products.”

Sintong HMT Hutasoit noted the importance of following the example set by developed markets such as the European Union and New Zealand, which have already implemented policies to phase out conventional battery cages. “Indonesia is now poised to consider similar progressive measures, aligned with the Animal Welfare Guidelines for Layer Farming issued by the Ministry of Agriculture. This direction enables us to develop a more sustainable, ethical, and globally competitive livestock industry,” he added.

The partnership with Catalyst, an organization dedicated to promoting sustainable agricultural practices across Southeast Asia, has been instrumental in facilitating this transition. Dr. Wadchara Pumpradit, President of Catalyst, highlighted the substantial economic opportunities emerging from the growing demand for cage-free eggs in the region.

“The increasing consumer preference for cage-free products represents a significant economic opportunity for Indonesian producers,” Dr.Wadchara stated. “Through this collaborative partnership between Catalyst, the government, and scientific communities, Indonesia is well-positioned to strengthen both its domestic market capacity and export potential, while simultaneously advancing sustainability and animal welfare standards across the livestock sector.”

Currently, five farms in Indonesia have successfully obtained cage-free certification, with the government and Catalyst working together to expand this number through structured training programs and local government support. The ToT program serves as a critical stepping stone in ensuring broader implementation of cage-free systems throughout the industry.

This collaborative initiative is expected to accelerate Indonesia’s transition toward sustainable livestock practices, enhance the competitiveness of its poultry industry in global markets, and establish the country as a regional leader in responsible, welfare-driven livestock production that benefits producers, consumers, and animals alike.