Coordinating Minister Zulhas Assures Food Supplies Secure Amid Middle East Conflict

Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan (Zulhas) has assured the public that food supplies are secure amidst Middle East tensions following US-Israeli strikes against Iran. Zulhas confirmed that food prices in Indonesia remain affordable.

“Whatever happens in the Middle East, regarding food supplies, we are prepared. Our stocks are sufficient, prices are affordable,” Zulhas stated at Parliament Complex premises in Senayan, Central Jakarta, on Sunday (15 March 2026).

Zulhas noted that chilli pepper prices had experienced recent increases but are now beginning to decline. “Whether rice, corn, eggs, fish or chicken — chilli pepper prices did rise somewhat, but are now starting to come down. Food supplies are secure, God willing,” he said.

The Chairman of the National Mandate Party (PAN) stated that fuel oil reserves are also secure for the next 30 days, ensuring Indonesia’s food supply is more than adequate amid escalating US-Israeli tensions with Iran.

“Fuel oil is secure; our reserves can last 30 days. If supplies are sufficient, they are more than sufficient,” he added.

Zulhas outlined several measures the government has implemented to suppress food prices. The government can also provide discounts on airline and train fares ahead of the 2026 Eid holiday exodus.

“We have established cheap markets with subsidies from regents and mayors, with every sub-district and village having affordable market programmes, subsidised fuel prices and emergency budget allocations that can be directed there,” Zulhas said.

“The central government has provided train and airline ticket discounts, and will extend assistance this month and next month for the lowest income deciles — 36 million families will receive 10 kilogrammes of rice and 2 litres of cooking oil,” he added.