Maluku keeps rice stocks

AMBON, Maluku: The head of the Maluku social welfare office has said at least 72.6 metric tons of rice have been prepared to anticipate food shortages.

Saut Hutadjulu said 50 tons were stored at the office, pending requests for distribution from regions, while the remainder had been distributed to the five regency offices.

The largest amount, 10 tons, was sent to the Southeast Maluku where the office has listed 17,976 needy families totaling 88,768 people.

Hutadjulu said the distribution was in accordance with recommendations of disaster task forces in each regency.

Of the remainder, Ambon mayoralty was provided with 1.5 tons, Central Maluku 2.5 tons, North Maluku 4.3 tons and Central Halmahera 4.3 tons, Antara reported on Sunday.