Deputy Minister for Education, Dr Clement Abas Apaak, has dismissed concerns raised by the Institute of Community Sustainability over the consumption of dog and cat meat.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Dr Apaak, who also identifies as the Global President of the Dog Meat Eaters Association (DOGMEA), urged members to disregard the criticism.

“As the Global President of the Dog Meat Eaters Association [DOGMEA], I urge all members to treat the call by the Institute of Community Sustainability with the contempt it deserves,” he stated.

Addressing the health concerns cited by the Institute, Dr Apaak questioned their basis.

“What do they mean by health concerns? Have we, the dog and cat meat consumers, reported health issues to them? And don’t people who do not eat dog and cat meat also have health issues?” he asked.

On ethical considerations, he challenged what he described as subjective standards.

“Ethical concerns? Whose ethics and by whose standards? We, the consumers of dog and cat meat, are guided by the ethics passed down by our ancestors. Our forefathers taught us the moral principles governing our behaviour, which include our consumption of dog and cat meat,” he said.

He further underscored the cultural significance of the practice.

“We consume dog and cat meat because it is part of our culture, heritage and tradition. It is part of our identity,” he explained.

Dr Apaak also stressed the link between food and culture.

“Food, dog and cat meat included, is a primary expression of cultural identity, heritage and social bonding,” he added.

He concluded by encouraging members to uphold their traditions confidently.

“I urge members to boldly and fearlessly consume these special delicacies. We are proud of our heritage; we are proud of our culture. It is our birthright to consume dog and cat meat,” he said.