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| Indonesian quarantine officials seized illegal bat meat and 50 kg of salted fish at the Aruk border in West Kalimantan, citing zoonotic disease risks and violations of national biosecurity regulations. |
Indonesia’s Agricultural Quarantine Agency, through the West Kalimantan Animal, Fish, and Plant Quarantine Office, recently confiscated 1 kilogram of illegal bat meat and 50 kilograms of salted fish at the Aruk Border Crossing Post in Sambas Regency, West Kalimantan. The enforcement took place at the Indonesia–Malaysia entry point in Sebunga Village.
Officers discovered the bat meat hidden beneath stacks of salted fish carried by a cross-border traveler. Authorities believe the method was intended to avoid quarantine inspection at the international border checkpoint. The goods were immediately detained because they lacked the required quarantine documentation.
High Risk of Zoonotic Disease Transmission
According to Ferdi, Head of West Kalimantan Quarantine, the enforcement action was not about the quantity of goods but about the biological risk involved. Even a small amount of animal product can pose a serious threat if it bypasses official health controls.
Scientifically, bats are recognized as natural reservoirs of several zoonotic diseases — infections that can spread from animals to humans. One of the most concerning is the Nipah virus, a highly fatal pathogen that has caused outbreaks in parts of Asia.
For that reason, even 1 kilogram of bat meat is classified as high risk to public health, environmental safety, and national food security if it enters the country without proper inspection.
Evidence Secured and Scheduled for Destruction
All confiscated goods are currently being held at the quarantine service unit at Aruk Border Post for further processing. Authorities plan to destroy the products in accordance with national regulations to prevent potential biological threats.
The owner of the goods has received official guidance and a warning. Officials emphasized that education is a key part of enforcement to ensure the public understands the importance of quarantine compliance in cross-border trade and travel.
Compliance Required Under National Quarantine Law
All animal, fish, plant, and derivative products entering Indonesia must comply with Law No. 21 of 2019 on Animal, Fish, and Plant Quarantine.
The regulation is designed to:
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Prevent the entry and spread of pests and animal diseases
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Protect public health
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Safeguard ecosystems and biodiversity
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Secure regional and national economic interests
West Kalimantan Quarantine authorities stated they will continue strengthening surveillance at strategic border entry points, including Aruk. Coordination with related agencies is also being intensified to ensure biosecurity protection.
Travelers are strongly advised not to transport animal-based products without proper documentation. Following quarantine regulations is not only a legal obligation but also a shared responsibility to protect national health and food systems.
FAQ
Why is bat meat considered dangerous?
Bats are known carriers of zoonotic viruses, including Nipah virus. Without proper inspection, the risk of disease transmission to humans increases significantly.
Does a small quantity still pose a risk?
Yes. Risk assessment is based on disease potential, not volume. Even small amounts can introduce harmful pathogens.
What happens to confiscated goods?
The products will be destroyed following quarantine protocols to eliminate any biological threat.
Are there penalties for violations?
Violators may receive warnings, administrative action, or further sanctions under Indonesian quarantine law, depending on the severity of the case.