Press Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia After Inspecting Kawat Market at Tanjungbalai City, North Sumatra Province, Thursday, March 14, 2024

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

Well, I was inspecting (staple food availability), especially for rice. When I checked there, the rice was not available, but over here I found rice. Stocks of rice from the food supply and price stabilization program (SPHP) are still available with the price of Rp57,000 per 5 kg and Rp12,800 for local medium-quality rice.

I think prices here remains stable compared to that of other provinces. Nevertheless, (the price of) chili has increased. I think if the Government can control the price stability of staple food ahead of Ramadan, it will provide benefits for the people.

Journalist
How about the stock availability, Sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

Second, I inaugurated the refined palm oil factory Pagar Merbau in Deli Serdang. This is also good since it processed directly from FFB (Fresh Fruit Bunches) to CPO (Crude Palm Oil) into cooking oil. Refined palm oil is excellent. Once again, first, its nutrients and vitamins are not lost, be it vitamin A, E, and the nutrients are remains. So, we will develop (such factory) not only in Deli Serdang but also in other provinces. I think that’s it.

Journalist
How about the price, Sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

The price of refined palm oil is below the price of cooking oil, which I am happy. There are more nutrients and vitamins, but the price is cheaper. I think this will be a good trend for frying matters. Thank you.

(GWH/EP)