INDOPOSCO.ID – Pleco fish have once again come under public scrutiny following reports of their mass burial while still alive in Jakarta. The species, commonly known as “ikan sapu-sapu,” is widely recognized as an invasive fish capable of damaging river ecosystems and threatening native species.
Efforts to control the pleco population have drawn attention from various groups, including Islamic scholars. While eradication measures are intended to protect environmental sustainability, concerns have been raised over the methods used.
“The mass burial of pleco fish while still alive violates two key principles: rahmatan lil ‘alamin (mercy to all creation) and animal welfare,” said KH Miftahul Huda, Secretary of the Fatwa Commission of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), in a statement on Sunday (April 19, 2026).
According to Miftah, the Jakarta provincial government’s policy to control the pleco population fundamentally carries maslahah (public benefit). The effort falls under hifẓ al-bī’ah (environmental protection), as it aims to safeguard river ecosystems from damage caused by invasive species.
“This aligns with the objectives of maqāṣid al-sharia, particularly within the category of modern ecological necessities (ḍharūriyyāt),” he said.
He further explained that the policy is also مرتبط with hifẓ an-nasl (preservation of life), as it seeks to protect biodiversity and prevent the extinction of local species, thereby maintaining ecological balance across generations.
However, he emphasized that from a sharia perspective, there are issues with the method of implementation. While killing animals may be permissible when there is a valid benefit, burying them alive is considered to involve cruelty due to the prolonged suffering it causes.
“Such actions are not in line with the principle of ihsan (compassion and excellence),” he stated.
Miftah cited a hadith of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), narrated by Shaddad bin Aus, which instructs believers to act with kindness in all matters, including when killing or slaughtering animals, ensuring the process minimizes suffering.
“This hadith is recorded in Sahih Muslim No. 1955, emphasizing the importance of treating animals with ihsan, such as sharpening the blade and avoiding unnecessary harm,” he explained.
He added that from an animal welfare perspective, burying fish alive is considered inhumane. One of the fundamental principles of animal welfare is minimizing suffering.
“This method causes unnecessary pain,” he concluded. (nas)
