West Sulawesi and UGM Launch Low-Cost Food Programme to Stabilise Prices

The West Sulawesi Provincial Government has collaborated with Gadjah Mada University (UGM) through its KKN-PPM Manapak programme to launch a Low-Cost Food Movement (GPM) aimed at stabilising food supply and prices. The initiative represents a synergy between the regional government and higher education institutions to support the strengthening of food security and public service, according to Suyuti Marzuki, Head of the West Sulawesi Food Agency. The programme, held in Sumare Village, Mamuju Regency, saw the provision of commodities supported by the Mamuju branch of the State Logistics Agency (Perum Bulog) and local food distributors. Various strategic commodities were sold below market prices, including SPHP rice, medium-grade rice, cooking oil, broiler eggs, and granulated sugar, alongside other essential goods. The presence of the low-cost food programme makes it easier for residents to obtain staple needs at affordable prices, helping to alleviate household expenditure burdens while supporting regional inflation control and maintaining supply and price stability in West Sulawesi. Suyuti Marzuki stated that the initiative is a concrete step by the government to ensure food price affordability and to strengthen collaboration with various stakeholders. He expressed hope that the synergy between the West Sulawesi Provincial Government, UGM, Bulog, and local food distributors would continue to bolster regional food resilience and contribute to a prosperous West Sulawesi. A resident of Sumare Village, Dewi, said the programme was very helpful for rural communities, as it saved them the cost and time of travelling to Mamuju city to buy essentials, while also offering cheaper prices than the general market.