Food security and safety initiatives launched in Bandung and Pekalongan

In Bandung, the Department of Food Security and Agriculture (DKPP) is collaborating with the Bandung City Prosecutor's Office to strengthen urban food independence. Through the 'Buruan SAE' program, residents are encouraged to utilize limited land for vegetable cultivation, seedling production, and organic composting. The initiative currently involves 555 groups, with plans to add 80 more groups by 2026. This partnership includes technical agricultural support from DKPP and legal assistance from the Prosecutor's Office to ensure transparency and accountability in programs such as subsidized fertilizer distribution.

In Pekalongan, the City Health Office is focusing on food safety standards among food service providers. Officials have noted challenges such as high employee turnover in restaurants and catering businesses, which can lead to untrained staff handling food. The health department is urging businesses, including school canteens and water depots, to implement strict hygiene protocols and ensure food handlers possess proper training certificates. Consumers are also advised to look for Sanitation Hygiene Feasibility Certificates (SLHS) when selecting dining establishments.