Indonesian officials and associations address traditional market issues

During a visit to traditional markets in Sidoarjo, Bambang Haryo Soekartono, a member of Commission VII of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), highlighted concerns regarding market infrastructure and the availability of subsidized cooking oil, known as Minyakita. Soekartono noted that several facilities required urgent attention, specifically citing issues with cleanliness, general infrastructure, and expired fire extinguishers. He personally took steps to refill three expired fire extinguishers to mitigate fire risks.

Soekartono also addressed the distribution of Minyakita, reporting that some stalls had run out of stock despite scheduled weekly deliveries. He emphasized the need for stable supplies of government-subsidized goods and called on Bulog to act effectively as a price stabilizer and quality guarantor. While basic food prices for items like eggs, onions, and chicken remained relatively stable, the availability of subsidized oil remains a priority.

In a separate development, the Indonesian Market Traders Association (APPSI) is focusing on strengthening its organizational role to better represent trader interests. During a pre-national assembly meeting in Jakarta, APPSI Chairman Sudaryono stressed the importance of coordination between central and regional leadership to identify and address the specific challenges faced by traders in various provinces.