Press Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia During the Inspection of Merdeka Market, Samarinda City, East Kalimantan Province, September 21, 2023

Journalist

What is your opinion on Merdeka traditional market in Samarinda that has used QRIS payment system, Sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

Yes, it is good. If all markets shops go cashless and all markets use QRIS payment system, I think that is really good. I guess this is a good innovation initiated by the Mayor.

And I am glad that the prices are also under control even the prices of chilis, garlics, and onion have also dropped. Rice price has not gone down yet, but I notice that the rice from the Logistics Agency (Bulog) has started to be distributed to the market.

We hope with the market operation conducted by Bulog, the price of rice can also drop.

Journalist

The rising price of rice has become a national issue due to El Nino, Sir, so, several regions …

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

Yes, the problem is due to the drop in supply from farmers and mills because of Super El Nino in seven provinces.

Journalist

So, does it mean we will import rice, Sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

Yes, we are improving strategic supplies through imports to compensate the drop in production.

(SS/AW/EP)