DPR Commission IV Highlights Rice Distribution in Cipinang to Maintain Prices
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) Commission IV has highlighted the importance of smooth rice distribution from producers to consumers at the Cipinang Rice Wholesale Market (PIBC), East Jakarta, to maintain food availability and market prices.
“We are ensuring that this rice is distributed from producers and also from Bulog to the market effectively and efficiently, and from there, it is redistributed to retailers and eventually to the public,” said the Chairperson of Commission IV of the DPR, Titiek Soerbarto, while monitoring rice availability and prices at the Cipinang Rice Wholesale Market (PIBC), East Jakarta, on Friday.
According to Titiek, the presence of sufficient rice stocks must be accompanied by a well-functioning distribution system. This ensures that supplies can reach various markets and consumers without hindrance.
After visiting and conversing with rice sellers, Titiek noted that rice originating from production centres, including West Java and Central Java, is currently entering the Cipinang Rice Wholesale Market.
“From what we observed and from our interviews with kiosk owners, the rice stock is flowing smoothly, with supplies from West Java and Central Java, and the prices are also good,” she said.
Furthermore, Titiek assessed that rice availability remains sufficient with affordable prices. She noted that the smooth turnover of rice at the Cipinang Rice Wholesale Market is a vital component in maintaining supply at the market level.
“Alhamdulillah, all stocks are extraordinary; behind these kiosks, every stall has plenty of stock, and most importantly, the turnover is good. This is a sign that the economy is improving; people can buy rice and absorb the supply from this wholesale market,” Titiek explained.
Titiek observed that the Indonesian economy is improving, as evidenced by the public’s ability to purchase rice. “If the market is buying a lot, it means there are many consumers buying, which indicates that the economy is improving and the community is able to afford this rice,” she added.
In addition to distribution, Titiek also ensured the quality of rice sold at PIBC through direct monitoring of several kiosks. She reported that during her visit, she did not find any rice in poor condition within the wholesale market area.
“As we went around, there was no weevil-infested rice; everything was good, according to its respective quality,” she said.
Titiek stated that the variation in quality and price provides options for the public to purchase rice according to their individual needs and means. She expressed hope that all parties involved in the rice distribution chain can maintain the smoothness of supply so that the public continues to obtain rice at affordable prices and appropriate quality.