AWO National Competition 2024: Enhancing Professionalism and Skills of Animal Welfare Officers in Indonesia

On January 24-25, 2024, Forum Animal Welfare Officer (AWO) in Indonesia organized an event titled AWO National Competition aimed at improving the skills, knowledge, and professionalism of AWOs in Indonesia. The event took place at Allisa Resort Anyer and involved participants from various Feedloters and local staff of Australian cattle exporting companies. The successful execution of the event was made possible by the full support of the Indonesia Australia Red Meat & Cattle Partnership (IA-RMCP).

The main agenda of the Animal Welfare Officer National Competition 2024 was designed to sharpen the skills, abilities, and knowledge of AWO members. Some of the activities included a quiz that tested agility and deep understanding of various aspects of animal welfare, ESCAS and halal standards. Additionally, there was a challenge involving the assembly and disassembly of stunner equipment, emphasizing speed, precision, and neatness in handling the equipment.

Beyond the competition, the Animal Welfare Officer National Competition 2024 also served as a platform to build networks among AWO members. One interesting aspect of the competition was the participation of AWO Feedloters and Exporters from different regions, providing an opportunity for interaction, discussion, and the sharing of valuable experiences and information to support collective efforts in improving animal welfare standards in Indonesia.

*Picture 2. Stunner Maintenance Competition*

This initiative not only benefited individual participants but also had a positive impact on the overall animal welfare industry. With the increased understanding and skills of AWO workers, it is expected that animal welfare practices in various sectors will also improve.

In conclusion, the Animal Welfare Officer National Competition 2024 is not just a competitive event but also a manifestation of the commitment of forum AWO in Indonesia to elevate animal welfare standards and the professionalism of AWO workers in the country. With the support of IA-RMCP and active participation from various stakeholders, this event represents a positive step toward a better future for animal welfare in Indonesia.

On the second day, the General Meeting of Forum Animal Welfare Officer (FAWO) Indonesia took place, and a significant moment occurred with the election of the Chairman for the 2024-2027 term. In an atmosphere filled with enthusiasm and spirit at the beginning of the year, Drh. Ismau Alim secured the highest number of votes in the general meeting and was ultimately appointed as the new Chairman of FAWO. With the election of Drh. Ismau Alim as the Chairman of FAWO, the 2024-2027 period is expected to continue the leadership legacy and unite all FAWO members to collectively contribute and work towards achieving the shared vision of creating animal welfare in the Australian cattle supply chain.

AWO National Competition Winners:

Maintenance Stunning:

Andri Puja Kesuma (PT. Juang Jaya Abdi Alam)