President Jokowi Inspects Food Prices at Mungkid Market, C. Java

President Jokowi inspects prices of basic necessities at Mungkid Market, Magelang regency, Monday (01/29). (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat/Kris)

President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo Monday (01/29) began his working visit to Central Java province by inspecting prices of basic necessities at Mungkid Market, Magelang regency.

Upon arrival at the market, President Jokowi received a warm welcome from traders and the local community. He quickly approached the traders, asking about the prices of basic commodities such as rice, chilies, and shallots.

“Well, I haven’t visited any market in nearly two weeks so I plan to check out a market in Magelang,” the President said in his statement after the inspection.

According to the President, prices of basic necessities at Mungkid Market remained stable.

“Nearly every commodity is reasonably priced; Bird’s eye chili is currently at Rp30 [thousand per kilogram], while shallots range from Rp20 to 22 [thousand per kilogram]. There’s a slight increase in rice [price], but overall, other prices remain stable,” he said, adding that the price of rice has experienced a slight increase because the main harvest period has yet to come.

On that occasion, the Head of State expressed belief that the price of rice is expected to decrease once the stock becomes plentiful.

“The harvest hasn’t taken place yet. Once we  produce high yield during the main harvest, the prices are expected to decline significantly,” he said.

In addition to price checking, President Jokowi also handed over social assistance to several traders.

Nunung, a poultry seller, expressed her joy and gratitude for receiving working capital assistance from President Jokowi.

“It will be utilized for additional capital and savings. We hope for its continuity, and we wish Pak Jokowi a prosperous future,” he said.

Muhammad Tosin, a vegetable trader, expressed excitement at the opportunity to meet the Head of the State, whom he perceives as a humble and people-oriented leader. He also expressed hope that Indonesia’s economy will robust in the future.

“I hope the commodity prices will become more stable, and the overall economic situation, especially for small traders will improve,” Tosin said. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat/ABD) (RIF/RAS/LW)