Jokowi Orders Minister Of Agriculture Amran Sulaiman To Focus On Rice Production

President Joko Widodo visited Batu Bulan Market, Sukawati District, Gianyar Regency, Bali, Tuesday (31/10). (PHOTO Dafi-VOI)

GIANYAR - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) emphasized that rice production must be encouraged to control prices in the market.

"The most important thing is that the production must continue to be pushed up, so that if the supply is large, the price will also not go up," said Jokowi on the sidelines of his visit to Pasar Bulan, Gianyar Regency, Bali, Tuesday, October 31.

The President instructed the Minister of Agriculture Amran Sulaiman so that rice production could be increased.

"Secondly, I have ordered the minister of agriculture to focus on rice production. Because there we cannot control it to pull it down, even though it is no longer rising," he added.

In addition, regional heads are also ordered to intervene in the prices of basic commodities. Local governments can use unexpected budgets.

"For regional heads, only yesterday I ordered them to intervene, if there is an increase in the price of any commodity with an unexpected budget, it can be done both for transportation, distribution, and looking for supplies from the production site. I think if that is done I am sure (the basic goods) are cheaper. But here the prices in my opinion are still good," he said.