CCN, CILEGON- The recent surge in rice prices in recent weeks has raised concerns in Cilegon City, just ahead of the upcoming General Elections. Data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) indicates that the increase in rice prices has had a significant impact on the Price Development Index (IPH) in the first week of February 2024.
A total of 179 regions across Indonesia, including Cilegon City, have felt the repercussions of the rice price hike. Cilegon residents have expressed their dissatisfaction with the surge, reaching Rp 17,000 – 23,000 per kilogram, up from the previous price of Rp 15,000. Additionally, the price of a 25 kg sack of rice has jumped from Rp 350,000 to Rp 400,000.
Cilegon’s Deputy Mayor, Sanuji Pentamarta, actively responded to residents’ complaints through his personal social media platform. On February 9, 2024, Sanuji personally inspected traditional markets in Keranggot and Blok F to find solutions to the significant price increase.
From the inspection, Sanuji found that rice sellers faced a price hike of 35-40%. Addressing this issue, Sanuji expressed hope that the government and relevant authorities would intervene to stabilize rice prices.
“Rice sellers in Keranggot and Blok F markets have experienced a significant price increase, reaching 35-40% from the previous prices. I hope the government and relevant authorities can promptly address this issue to prevent further increases,” said Sanuji.
Several reports from rice sellers suggested that the price hike might be due to the delayed harvest season. However, Sanuji emphasized that this couldn’t be confirmed as farmers had recently undergone the harvesting period.
Meanwhile, residents’ concerns escalated with the failure of the distribution of rice aid from the Government’s Food Reserve Program (CPP).
When contacted, Nur Kholis, the Head of Lebak Denok Sub-District, Citangkil District, stated that there was no official confirmation from the sub-district yet. “As of now, there’s no official confirmation from the sub-district. Please wait for further information,” said Kholis. (***)
