First-ever fatwa against wildlife trafficking

Indonesia is the world's most populous Muslim nation and an epicenter of illegal poaching and wildlife trafficking.  So, when the country's Muslim leadership issues the first-ever fatwa--or religious edict--against poaching, it has to grab your attention.

All help is appreciated...  (photo by Chi'en Lee)

Specifically, the Indonesian Council of Ulama, the country's top Muslim clerical body, has declared the illegal hunting or trade of endangered species to be forbidden. 

This is believed to be the first-ever fatwa issued in relation to the illegal wildlife trade, a massive problem globally (see our blogs on this issue below). 

Endangered species in Indonesia include tigers, rhinos, elephants, and orangutans, among many others.  Indonesia is currently the world's biggest destroyer of native forests.

The fatwa is being hailed as a visionary effort to compel both Indonesian Muslims and the government to combat the illegal wildlife trade.