Indonesia extends rice food assistance program through 2026

The Indonesian government has extended its rice food assistance program through December 2026 to protect low-income households from food supply pressures caused by weather changes and El Nino risks. The program aims to maintain household purchasing power and ensure access to staple foods for vulnerable families.

In West Sumatra, the distribution of rice assistance has reached 49.46 percent of the total quota. This involves 648,991 beneficiaries with a total allocation of 19,469.730 tons of rice. Currently, 9,629.430 tons have been distributed. Alex Indra Lukman, Vice Chairman of Commission IV of the DPR RI, has urged authorities to accelerate the process to ensure all beneficiaries receive their portions promptly.

Perum BULOG is working with local governments to ensure availability and smooth distribution at the village level. Nationally, the program utilizes the National Single Socio-Economic Data (DTSEN) to ensure aid is accurately targeted. Previously, the government distributed assistance to over 33 million families, providing 10 kilograms of rice per month per recipient.