Press Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia during Inspection at Baturiti Market, February 2, 2023

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
I went to the Baturiti Market to check the prices. The oil price remains stable at Rp15,000. Well, there is a slight increase, but it is normal. Other commodities prices also remain stable, which is good.

Journalist
What about the price of rice, Sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
The price of rice is increasing in all provinces. Currently, the State Logistics Agency (Bulog) has been carrying out market operations in all provinces. It has been started in early January. There is no significant change yet, but it has shown a slight decrease. We will constantly carry out large-scale market operations on the ground.

Journalist
What did you buy from the market, Sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
The First Lady bought wani mango (balinese white mango) and some golden apples.

Journalist
One more thing, Sir. Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Cak Imin has expressed opinion to remove the position of governor from the governance system. Any thoughts on this matter, Sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Everything requires in-depth study. This is a democratic country, so it is acceptable to propose an idea. However, everything needs to be well calculated. Will the system be more efficient or make the control range too far from the Central Government? For example, regents and mayors. It is the span of control that must be calculated.

Journalist
One more thing, Sir, regarding Indonesia’s Corruption Perception Index rating that fell to 34.

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Well, we will carry out evaluation and correction.

(RIF/MUR)