An Analytical Study on the Attitude of Abattoir Personnel in Ensuring Animal Welfare: Halalan Thayyiban Perspective

Abstract

The concept of halalan thayyiban was introduced in the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) more than 1400 years ago. Naturally, these divine and holistic terms apply to all life aspects including the attitude of the abattoir personnel who handle the living animals as forgoing these may contradict the Islamic values. Therefore, this study aims to ascertain whether the attitude of slaughterhouse workers aligns with the halalan thayyiban principles. Along the same line, this research also intends to outline the existing and potential strategies for improving as well as maintaining the attitude of the personnel in upholding animal welfare. To achieve these objectives, a qualitative approach with semi-structured interviews was conducted at selected local slaughterhouses in Brunei Darussalam. The results of the study showed that all the personnel involved displayed exemplary attitudes towards animal welfare according to halalan thayyiban perspectives. Moreover, it was found that the current approaches used in the slaughterhouses had a significant impact on the attitude of the workers. Additionally, the study was also able to acquire their recommendations and viewpoints in enhancing and sustaining their attitude towards animal welfare. Hence, the study concluded that applying halalan thayyiban values and introducing relevant procedures are undoubtedly vital in shaping the personnel’s attitude to secure animal welfare as per Shariah directives. Nonetheless, it is hoped that this study will assist future works in further analysing the attitude of abattoir workers in a wider scope.