Governor Khofifah Instructs East Java Regents and Mayors to Monitor Essential Goods Prices

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has issued strict instructions to all regents and mayors in the province to immediately visit traditional markets. The move aims to monitor the movement of essential goods prices and ensure swift preventive action in case of price surges or shortages.

Khofifah made the announcement during a site visit to Klojen Market in Malang on Friday (29 May). She stressed that the presence of local leaders on the ground is crucial to reassure the public.

‘We request that regents and mayors visit markets to directly check the prices of essential goods and identify any increases,’ Khofifah stated firmly. ‘Swift action is needed if prices rise, especially in cases of scarcity.’

During the inspection, Khofifah expressed concern over the unavailability of medium-grade SPHP (Stabilisation of Supply and Food Prices) rice in the market, despite East Java having a sufficient stock of 3.2 million tonnes for optimal distribution.

‘Most Malang residents may already be using premium rice, but medium-grade rice must remain available. The public still needs affordable options,’ she said. She also emphasised the need for strict oversight of Minyakita oil distribution to ensure compliance with the HET.

While raw chilli and shallots have seen price spikes, other commodities remain relatively stable. Prices of curly chilli, red chilli, and garlic are within normal ranges. Meanwhile, protein sources such as eggs and chicken meat have seen a downward trend.

Beef prices have stabilised ahead of Idul Adha following a rise during Ramadan. For long-term solutions, the governor highlighted the importance of Inter-Regional Cooperation (KAD).

‘KAD is crucial. If there is potential inflation due to rising prices in certain areas, mitigation and preventive measures can be jointly implemented. We want to ensure the public’s purchasing power remains protected,’ she concluded. (FL/I-1)