The President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo, visited the Cipinang Rice Main Market in Pisangan Timur, Pulogadung, East Jakarta, Thursday (2/15).

I came to PSBI to make sure there was rice stock

The President was accompanied by Jakarta Acting Governor, Heru Budi Hartono and PT Food Station Tjipinang Jaya Main Director, Pamrihadi Wiraryo.

His arrival at Food Station's main rice market was to ensure the availability of both premium (commercial) rice and stabilization of food supply and prices (SPHP) for distribution to retail and traditional markets.

"I came to PSBI to make sure there was rice stock, as it would be distributed to retailers or supermarkets. We make sure that the rice here is available, there is enough of it and I see it is abundant," he expressed.

He explained the distribution process was disrupted and the harvest supply was not evenly distributed to all markets, which is thought to have resulted in the current rice shortage. Hence, Bulog is sending rice to areas to deal with it, including to PIBC.

"Because the harvest has not yet entered the market. Distribution was also disrupted by flooding in Demak, Gerobogan, which affected it. But, I think it has been resolved through delivery from Bulog to the regions, Bulog to Cipinang Main Market," he explained.

He targeted that the rice shortage would be resolved in two weeks. Moreover, the harvest is predicted to occur in March 2024.

"Markets or regions ask for any number of berries, whether SPHP rice or commercial berries. This country is big and has many islands, sometimes distribution is hampered, but not all. But, it is already abundant here (PIBC), it will be distributed to retail and traditional markets," he stated.