The goatification of Jakarta

Yep, it's that time of year again -- Idul Adha, the day of sacrifice. Everybody who can afford it is supposed to buy a goat or cow, slaughter it, give some of the meat to the poor and enjoy the rest with friends and family.


The week before Idul Adha, Jakarta is filled with barnyard-y sights and smells. Goats are tied to trees by the side of the road or corralled in temporary pens on the sidewalks. Yesterday I saw someone walking a cow down the street, and later on, two water buffaloes (I'm pretty sure they were water buffaloes) being led across the train tracks.

It's nice having all these animals around; it softens the intense urban-ness of Jakarta. The fun ends today, though ... especially for them.