Jakarta. Indonesia’s qurban economy is seeing a slight decline this year, as fewer people are sacrificing livestock animals as part of Eid, according to the Institute for Demographic and Affluence Studies (IDEAS).

The qurban refers to the Muslim ritual animal sacrifice of a livestock animal during Eid al-Adha, which will take place next week. Every year, Indonesia -- the world’s largest Muslim-majority economy -- will see tons of people following this ritual. People selling sacrificial animals -- ranging from goats to cows of different sizes -- can be easily found in markets or on the roadside ahead of Eid. This ritual is for those who are financially able, with the slaughtered meat to be distributed to the poor.

IDEAS estimated that Indonesia’s qurban economy could reach Rp 26.89 trillion (approximately $1.52 billion) this year. These economic activities come from 1.9 million households that will sacrifice 1.59 million animals. Last year, Indonesia generated Rp 27.10 trillion ($1.53 billion) in the qurban economy. Not only are fewer people taking part in the ritual, but they are also opting for smaller and cost-effective animals.

According to IDEAS’ projections, Indonesians will likely sacrifice around 493,180 cows, down by 10,170 compared to the previous year. There are likely to be 10,170 goats or sheep, about 3,430 fewer. As a result, the distributed meat will only reach 99,290 tons, down 1,850 tons from the previous year.

"People are still trying to maintain the practice of qurban, but they tend to choose more affordable animals. This is evident in the increasing demand for goats and sheep weighing 40 kilograms and 20 kilograms," IDEAS analyst Tira Mutiara said.

IDEAS also pointed out the uneven distribution. Urban areas in Java are witnessing the largest surplus, while East Lampung suffers a deficit.

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