DPR Deputy Speaker Bahtra Absorbs Aspirations, Distributes Aid in East Kolaka

House of Representatives (DPR) Deputy Speaker for Commission II, Bahtra Banong, visited three villages in East Kolaka Regency, Southeast Sulawesi, on Monday (10/8) as part of a recess period agenda to engage with and directly absorb the aspirations of the local community. The locations visited included Andowengga Village in Poli-Polia District, as well as Talodo and Lalosingi villages in Lalolae District. During the visit, Bahtra engaged with residents, listened to their concerns, and distributed hundreds of basic food packages. He emphasised that understanding regional aspirations is crucial for the DPR’s function in ensuring government policies deliver tangible benefits to the grassroots. Bahtra also urged the public to continue supporting President Prabowo Subianto’s priority programmes, expressing hope that these initiatives would run smoothly and benefit communities in remote areas. He called on residents not to be easily provoked by negative or unverified information and to maintain a conducive atmosphere so the government can perform its duties effectively. Addressing the broader context, Bahtra explained that the current administration faces challenges from global geopolitical dynamics affecting various sectors, including energy. He noted that despite these pressures, the government has managed to maintain subsidised fuel prices to protect the purchasing power of rural communities. He concluded by stressing the importance of viewing government policies comprehensively rather than relying solely on social media narratives.