Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia after Inspecting Corn Harvest in Boalemo Regency, Gorontalo Province, April 22, 2024
Reporter
Mr. President, what do you think about the corn harvest, sir?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
We aim to ensure that our corn production continues to increase. Our corn imports have decreased significantly from 3.5 million tonnes to 400,000-450,000 tonnes. However, the price of corn has also dropped from Rp 8,000 to Rp 5,000 or Rp 4,000 per kilogram. The price [of corn] in this area is Rp 4,050. Since the price has dropped, we know that we have a high level of production. We hope that the price will also increase. The government and the State Logistics Agency (Bulog) will take necessary measures to address the issue.
Reporter
Mr. President, in the last few months, Gorontalo has been in the dry season, and several farmers have experienced crop failures.
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Today’s situation is still under control. We once estimated that we would not have surplus, but the data from the Statistics Indonesia (BPS) shows that we have a rice surplus of 300,000 tonnes.
Reporter
What is your impression after visiting Boalemo, sir?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
This area produces a lot of corn and coconut, which can be seen from the aerial view from above.
Reporter
What is your response to our national football team’s 4-1 win over Jordan?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Yesterday afternoon I told you that we should pray together so that the team would score as many goals as possible and the players would not get any red cards. It seems that all of our prayers have been answered by Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala. Now I am still sleepy after watching the last night’s game. We managed to score four goals. That was great. The game was very beautiful, and the players developed good strategy to score goals.
Reporter
What is your hope for Gorontalo?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
This region should increase its agricultural productivity. I have ordered Minister of Agriculture [Andi Amran Sulaiman] to ensure timely and adequate supply of seeds and fertilizer to enhance agricultural productivity. Let me also emphasize the need to implement terrace farming in hilly areas to prevent erosion and sedimentation. It may be done slowly but it has to be started.
Thank you.
Reporter
What do you think about the upcoming Constitutional Court’s decision [regarding the Presidential election]?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
That is the domain of the Constitutional Court.
(RI/LW)