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Jakarta’s ban on dancing monkeys

In 2013, Jakarta's governor outlawed the use of dancing monkeys on the streets of Indonesia's capital after a campaign by animal rights activitsts.

In 2013, Jakarta's governor moved to outlaw the use of dancing monkeys on the city’s streets.

The Indonesian tradition saw macaques made to perform for passers-by - often restrained by chains and dressed in plastic masks. Campaigners said the animals were frequently subjected to harsh treatment and poor living conditions.

Animal rights activist Femke den Haas played a key role in securing the ban.

She tells Vicky Farncombe that it was the suffering of one particular monkey, Johnny, that spurred her to take action.

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Release date:

11 minutes

On radio

Thu 14 Aug 2025 07:50GMT

Broadcasts

  • Thu 14 Aug 2025 07:50GMT
  • Thu 14 Aug 2025 11:50GMT
  • Thu 14 Aug 2025 17:50GMT
  • Thu 14 Aug 2025 21:50GMT
  • Fri 15 Aug 2025 02:50GMT

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