DPD Chairman Urges Government to Mitigate Middle East Conflict Impact

The chairman of Indonesia’s Regional Representative Council (DPD RI), Sultan Baktiar Najamudin, has warned the government to take immediate mitigation measures against the escalating Middle East conflict, which threatens to destabilise the domestic economy. He stressed that global geopolitical tensions could disrupt food availability and purchasing power ahead of the Eid 2026 celebrations.

The statement was delivered during the 8th plenary session of the 2025-2026 parliamentary term held at the Nusantara V Building, Parliamentary Complex, Senayan, Jakarta, on Friday (13 March).

“The Middle East turmoil is an alarm for all nations. The government must act immediately on mitigation so that rising food prices do not burden citizens celebrating Eid,” said Sultan.

The senator from Bengkulu highlighted the annual inflation figure of 4.76% as of February 2026 as a warning signal for household economic resilience and small and medium-sized business operators in the regions. This situation is increasingly challenging given the state budget deficit, which has reached Rp135.7 trillion.

Sultan emphasised the need for exceptionally careful and tactical fiscal management from both central and regional governments to maintain supply chain integrity.

“With inflation at 4.76%, the key is strengthening regional food production and distribution stability. Supply chains must not be disrupted amidst global uncertainty,” he stressed.

Beyond economic issues, Sultan urged the government to ensure infrastructure readiness and transportation services. Given the predicted sharp increase in public mobility during Eid 1447 Hijri, inter-agency coordination was deemed crucial to guarantee the safety and comfort of travellers.

“Our objective is singular: ensuring millions of travellers can return home safely and comfortably without being burdened by surging prices of essential goods,” Sultan added.