President Jokowi Inspects Rice Supply in SE. Sulawesi

President Jokowi visits the Bulog Laende Warehouse Complex in Muna regency, Southeast Sulawesi province on Monday (05/13). (Photo by: BPMI/Vico)

President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo visited the Bulog Laende Warehouse Complex in Muna regency, Southeast Sulawesi province on Monday (05/13) to ensure the availability and stability of national food supplies, as well as the distribution of food reserve assistance to beneficiary families.

In his remarks, President Jokowi confirmed that the distribution of 10 kilograms of rice per family will continue until June and may be extended until December depending on the availability of the State Budget (APBN).

“We hope that it can continue until December,” said President Jokowi, while expressing optimism about the possibility of continuing this assistance based on budget availability.

The President also explained that the initiative to provide rice assistance was a response to the increase in rice prices that occurred due to global food inflation.

“Because global food prices are all rising. Ours is still considered low. Other countries experience higher increase. We should be grateful that the increase is not drastic,” he explained.

On the other hand, the President acknowledged that maintaining rice prices in Indonesia is no easy task, because he must consider the welfare of farmers and affordability for consumers. “If it’s high, people will definitely be complaining, but farmers will definitely be happy because prices have risen high,” he said.

The Head of State added that the Government sometimes has to struggle to maintain a balance between public satisfaction and farmers’ welfare. Therefore, it is hoped that the distribution of 10 kilograms of rice will ease the burden of the people.

The President’s visit is also a symbol of the Government’s commitment to continuing to support society amidst economic challenges, while maintaining social stability amidst fluctuations in global food prices. (BPMI/AIT) (EST/MUR)