Habibie checks food prices in markets

JAKARTA (JP): Ignoring the stench and market bustle, President B.J. Habibie made his first ever visit to a traditional market in Jatinegara and the Cipinang rice depot, both in East Jakarta, yesterday.

Habibie talked casually with traders and asked them to tell him their troubles.

He claimed that this was the only way for him to truly know the market price of rice and its supply.

He described himself as a doctor, probing for the correct prognosis.

"Like a patient who must frankly confide his aches to a physician... you must tell me the real truth so the correct prescription can be prescribed," he told traders.

A wholesaler went up and proposed Habibie order the State Logistics Agency (Bulog) to increase the purchasing price of unhusked rice from farmers to increase their income.

Habibie smilingly retorted: "But then it would not be the farmers but you traders who would get more money."

Most traders told Habibie that the daily supply of goods was enough, though prices continued to rise each day.

Economists have said the current Rp 1,000 per kg price of rice is too low compared to imported rice prices which exceed Rp 3,000 per kg.

Security was lax throughout the visit. Even three-wheeled bajaj taxis were free to move about.

The presidential security team sometimes lost Habibie in the bustling market as his small frame moved quickly from one stall to another in between large stacks of rice sacks.

Habibie was accompanied by Minister of Defense and Security/Armed Forces Commander Gen. Wiranto, Minister/State Secretary Akbar Tandjung, Minister of Industry and Trade Rahardi Ramelan and Bulog chief Beddu Amang.

The group went to Jatinegara after staying about 30 minutes in Cipinang. They all rode in the same van.

Wide-eyed, Habibie joyfully recounted his maiden visit to a traditional market.

"Just now I saw my favorite salted fish. Actually I wanted to buy it, but I felt ashamed because the trader might have refused my money if I tried to pay," Habibie said after the visit.

Habibie, however, was confident he would eventually get the fish. "I will tell ibu (his wife) that I want the fish and ask her to buy it," Habibie cheekily remarked.

"I will turn 62 this month but I have never been to the central market. Not because I don't care but I had other duties, you know". (prb)