Interior Minister Tito Urges Regional Heads to Strengthen Preparedness Against Inflation and Global Crises

Interior Minister (Mendagri) Muhammad Tito Karnavian has urged all regional heads to increase preparedness in facing potential inflation and the impacts of global crises that could affect the economic conditions of the public, especially low-income groups. The Minister stressed that the cost of living issue is currently the primary concern of the public. “More than 60 percent of our people are concerned about the cost of living, especially food. This cannot be delayed,” he asserted while serving as the keynote speaker at the Working Meeting of the Regional Commissariat (Komwil) I of the All-Indonesia City Government Association (APEKSI) in Banda Aceh City, Aceh, on Monday (20/4/2026). He assessed that inflation is no longer just a macro issue, but a concrete problem directly felt by the public on a daily basis. Rises in food, energy, and logistics prices can quickly trigger social pressures. He even warned of extreme potential impacts if inflation is not controlled. “If it explodes, the cost is high. It could lead to riots and damage to public facilities. Building takes a long time, destroying is quick,” he said. The Interior Minister also highlighted the global dynamics that are still full of challenges, from the Russia-Ukraine conflict to tensions in the Middle East involving several major countries. According to him, these developments also affect global energy prices, which impact various sectors. He explained that rising oil prices can trigger a chain reaction on transportation costs, distribution, and goods prices. Therefore, the active role of local governments is key in maintaining price stability in the regions. “Don’t go on autopilot. Don’t wait until the problem explodes,” he said. The Interior Minister asked the Regional Inflation Control Team (TPID) to continue strengthening its performance, including through intensive coordination with the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) to monitor price movements in real-time. He emphasised that inflation control can be focused on two main aspects: ensuring adequate supply and smooth distribution. As an example, he mentioned the spike in chilli prices that occurred in several areas of Aceh. According to him, this condition is not only influenced by production factors but also suboptimal distribution. Furthermore, the Interior Minister assessed that regions with a strong food production base tend to be more resilient in facing economic pressures. Meanwhile, urban areas that rely on external supplies need to strengthen their food security strategies.