Farmers’ Forum in Blitar: Government Support for Cage-Free Systems

On May 7, 2025, Across Species Project Indonesia (ASPI) attended the Farmers’ Forum titled “Implementing Animal Welfare and Managing Cage-Free Laying Hen Farms” ,organized by Animal Friends Jogja (AFJ), an animal protection organization in Indonesia. Held at Pendapa Ageng Hand Asta Sih, Srengat Subdistrict, Blitar Regency, East Java, the event was attended by laying hen farmers, egg farming cooperatives, animal protection organizations, and local government representatives. 

Several stakeholders delivered presentations based on their respective areas of expertise. Representing Global Food Partners, Anom Yusuf presented on the management of cage-free farms and their development potential. 

There was also a presentation on the management of a postal-style cage-free farm, Tri Manunggal Bhakti Farm, which has been certified by Certified Humane—a trademark of Humane Farm Animal Care (HFAC), the organization behind the Certified Humane Raised & Handled welfare certification program for farmed animals.

Equally important, Eko Susanto, S.T., M.Si, Head of the Blitar Regency Office of Livestock and Fisheries, gave a presentation on the role of the government in animal welfare and the cage-free laying hen farming system.

Currently, over 90% of laying hen farms in Indonesia still use battery cages—a system that has been banned in many countries, including EU member states, Bhutan, and several U.S. states.

Although the use of battery cages remains widespread in Indonesia, the good news is that in recent years, the country’s egg industry has shown positive progress toward more ethical practices, in line with the global cage-free trend. This is evident in the growing number of companies that have made cage-free commitments and farmers who have begun transitioning to cage-free systems.

The Farmers’ Forum held by AFJ in Blitar, which ASPI attended, further strengthened hope for greater awareness and cooperation among stakeholders to improve the lives of farmed animals. The local government has also expressed its support through plans to provide guidance for farmers. So now the question is: will the laying duck industry move in the same direction?