DKI Provincial Government signs MoU with Pariaman to secure rice supply

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Pariaman City Government to secure the rice supply, with the hope that prices will remain stable for the capital’s residents.

“Jakarta does not have land, but it has fiscal capacity. Therefore, Food Station is implementing contract farming with several regions to meet Jakarta’s very large food needs,” said Deputy Governor of DKI Jakarta, Rano Karno, during a working visit to the RMU (Rice Milling Unit) in South Pariaman, Pariaman City, West Sumatra, on Monday.

On that occasion, the memorandum of understanding was signed by Food Station Tjipinang Jaya (FSTJ) and the Pariaman City Government, which is expected to further guarantee the rice supply for Jakarta while maintaining price stability through strengthening the supply side.

This cooperation is also expected to streamline the distribution chain to make it more efficient and transparent, reduce the risk of supply and price fluctuations, and open up broader market access while improving the welfare of farmers in Pariaman City.

On that occasion, Rano proposed the development of mackerel fish farming to the Pariaman City Government and the West Sumatra Provincial Government, in line with plans to revitalise coastal areas.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Governor of West Sumatra, Vasko Ruseimy, assessed that the cooperation between FSTJ and the Pariaman City Government is part of the national agenda to strengthen food security and the agricultural sector.

“In line with that policy direction, strengthening continues to be carried out, from managing rice reserves, price stability, to more equitable food distribution. Food security is not only about availability, but also affordability and sustainability,” he explained.

The Mayor of Pariaman, Yota Balad, stated that his side is promoting coastal area arrangement, tourism development, strengthening of MSMEs, as well as preservation of arts, culture, and agriculture.

He viewed Jakarta as a metropolitan city with experiences and innovations that can serve as a reference.

“For us, cooperation with DKI Jakarta is not just a formality, but a strategic step to learn from the best. We believe that regional progress cannot be achieved alone, but through collaboration,” he said.