Bat meat still popular in parts of Indonesia, despite coronavirus fears

A traders displaying bat or paniki meat at Tomohon traditional market in Manado, North Sulawesi. Bat meat is still popular in some parts of Indonesia, despite research suggesting the coronavirus spreading from China might have originated in bats before being passed on to humans. - JP/ANN

MANADO: Bat meat is still popular in some parts of Indonesia, despite research suggesting the coronavirus spreading from China might have originated in bats before being passed on to humans.

Bats are traditionally eaten by the Minahasan people from North Sulawesi in the form of a curry-like dish called Paniki. Whole bats are used in Paniki, including the head and wings.