TIMES MALAYSIA, ARAB – The Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag) has issued a circular to ensure that the execution of dam (sacrificial animal offerings) aligns with Islamic law (Shariah compliance) and optimizes the utilization of dam/hadyu meat. Anna Hasbie, the spokesperson for Kemenag, emphasized the importance of this directive.

The circular, SE Dirjen PHU Number 04 of 2024, provides Technical Guidelines for Dam/Hadyu Payments for the year 1445 H/2024 M. The primary aims are standardization, rationalization, accountability, and uniformity in dam payments for both pilgrims and Hajj officials.

The circular outlines the dam payment amounts and the authorized institutions for these payments. These institutions include the Al-Ukaisyiyah and Adhahi slaughterhouses.

"Pilgrims and Hajj officials can pay their dam/hadyu at these two slaughterhouses. Insha'Allah, this method is safer and adheres to Shariah principles," Anna explained.

The technical guidelines specify the standard components and costs associated with dam, providing clear references for both pilgrims and officials. The costs differ between the two slaughterhouses.

At the Adhahi slaughterhouse, the dam payment is set at 720 Saudi Riyals (SR), approximately 3 million Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). This fee covers seven components: the cost of the goat, slaughtering services, skinning, cleaning the stomach, cooling, packing, and distribution.

Alternatively, the dam can be paid at the Al-Ukaisyiyah slaughterhouse for 580 Saudi Riyals (SR), around 2.5 million IDR. This fee includes the cost of the goat, slaughtering services, skinning, cleaning the stomach, cooling, packing, meat processing via retort, and distribution.

These guidelines from Kemenag RI ensure that the process is not only compliant with Shariah but also efficient and transparent, benefiting both the pilgrims and the community receiving the meat. (*)