Rice Prices Soar, Bulog Malang Distributes Government Rice Reserves

Perum Bulog’s Malang branch in East Java is distributing government rice reserves to food aid recipients amid rising commercial rice prices.

“The rice distribution in Polowijen sub-district of 18,180 kg for 606 food aid recipients is the first, and later it will cover all 57 sub-districts,” said M. Nurjuliansyah Rachman, head of Perum Bulog Malang, after the launch of the Rice and Cooking Oil Food Aid Programme for the July-September 2026 allocation on Wednesday (26/8).

He explained that total rice distribution in Malang City amounts to 1,664 tonnes for 54,820 beneficiaries. The total distribution of government rice reserves in Bulog Malang’s working area is 18,000 tonnes, covering Malang City and Regency, Batu City, and Pasuruan City and Regency.

“Each beneficiary receives 30 kg in three sacks of rice,” he said.

Malang Mayor Wahyu Hidayat stated that the rice is delivered to beneficiaries for three months at 30 kg, or 10 kg per month. The rice distribution is for the July-September 2026 allocation.

“It is possible there will be additional assistance if there is a policy from the central government,” said Mayor Wahyu.

Regarding the rise in rice prices, Wahyu continued, it is due to weather conditions that have reduced supply in the market. The regional inflation control team will check prices and stock in the market while considering market operations. In line with central government directives, regional governments are asked to control affordable prices and ensure food availability.

“We hope the food aid can help control prices,” he said.

Rice prices have surged in traditional markets. Supriyono, a rice trader at Bunulrejo market in Malang City, said the wholesale price of Lombok brand rice in 5 kg packaging rose from Rp77,000 to Rp80,000.

Similarly, Lahap brand rice rose from Rp76,000 to Rp79,000. Lumbung Desa brand rice increased from Rp73,000 to Rp75,000 per 5 kg pack. Raja brand rice was previously priced at Rp75,500 and has now risen to Rp77,000.

The increase in rice prices has caused purchasing power for commercial rice of various brands to decline.

“Usually I can sell 50 sacks of rice per day in 5 kg packaging, now I sell an average of 15 sacks,” he said.