Press Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia After the inspection of Masomba Traditional Market in Palu City, Central Sulawesi Province, August 30, 2023

Journalist
What do you think, Mr. President?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

Yes, I noted that the economic growth here is positive. I was briefed that the economy here has grown by 13 percent or two and half times our national economic growth, meaning that the economy of Central Sulawesi province is growing very well as evidenced by many new shops, buildings, and constructions.

Why? Because the economic growth has exceeded 13 percent. I already told the Governor to encourage nickel industries here (to utilize surrounding community products) such as catering. I think it’s better if those who supply catering there are from the surrounding residents. The same also applies for eggs and raw chicken supply so that there is a true economic growth effect to the regions although not all of them become the national aggregate. I think that’s good. What makes me happier is that prices of most of food commodities in the province remain stable amid a high economic growth—chicken at Rp25,000 and shallots at Rp23,000. That’s good. Prices can be controlled even though the economy is growing as expected and the people will feel the impact.

Journalist
Mr. President, I have one question on permanent housing for quake survivors. Currently there are still many that are left unconstructed and there are still displaced residents in the north, Sir.

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

I haven’t received the final report yet. Nevertheless, what is clear is that we have constructed thousands (of permanent housing), be it built by the private sector or by Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing. I will recheck it at the BNPB (the National Disaster Mitigation Agency) on the number of the houses that must be constructed. Afterwards, we will continue the progress.

Journalist
Of the seven nickel producing regions, only two experienced an increase in poverty alleviation, while the others were so-so?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

Of course, there will not be an immediate impact. What we both know is that national economic growth is at 5.17 [percent] but here it can be 13 [percent]. This is extraordinary. Therefore, I said earlier that this should have a downward effect; hence I hope that surrounding communities will be able to supply needs to industries such as eggs, rice, catering, or even the need for builders. That is the obligation of governors, regents, and mayors. Don’t let everything be taken care of by the Central Government. The regional head knows more about the situation on the ground. I think that’s from me.

(GWH/EP)