Press Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia After Inspecting Senggol Market, Dumai City, Riau Province, June 1, 2024

Journalist
What is the reason for choosing Garuda Field as the site to hold ceremony commemorating the birth of Pancasila?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
I would like to remind us that Rokan Block located in Dumai, Riau province is fully owned, 100%, by Pertamina. It is owned by Indonesia and managed by Indonesian human resources. It can generate 162 thousand barrels per day. The production is higher compared to the result when the block was managed by Chevron, which was at 130 thousand barrels. It indicates that there is an increase when local human resources take part. It is good news and I have set a production target of 200 thousand.

Journalist
What are your directives for future development?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
A new technology is implemented in one well that multiples the production. It will be further developed to other wells. Thereby, the new technology can significantly increase production [capacity].

Journalist
(inaudible)

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
There will be two or three this year and next year. Currently, there is one.

Journalist
What is the name of the traditional attire you are wearing today, sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Belango, Teluk Belango from Riau Malay.

Journalist
Do you have statement on Indonesia’s stance against Israel?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Although I have stated this many times before, I want to reiterate that Indonesia strongly condemns Israel’s attack on Rafah. Israel has an obligation to obey the International Court of Justice, including to stop its offensive attacks on Palestine.

Journalist
How was today’s market inspection?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

The prices of commodities are similar with that of other markets. The price of garlic is around Rp38,000 to Rp40,000, while shallot price is Rp45,000; two commodities with fluctuated prices. I think the prices are stable. There is no any significant increase.

Journalist
What about rice stock?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
You can check it to Bulog warehouse in Dumai. Check the stock, the warehouse, check it directly on the ground. You don’t have to ask me, because I just went there. Rice stock at the Bulog warehouse nationally is usually between 900 (thousand) and 1.2 million tons. As of today, the amount reaches 1.8 million tons, spreading throughout Bulog warehouses in every city and province.

Journalist
(inaudible)

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Retail price ceiling (HET) for rice has not shown any signs of decline even though rice yield during harvest season increases. This situation is caused by the increase in farmers’ costs for land rental, fertilizer, seeds, and labor. So, the public must understand that farmers also need to make a profit. On the other hand, the price should still be affordable for the public. It is not easy to seek the balance that can benefit farmers and buyers.

(RAS/MMB)