South Sumatra implements measures to secure rice supply amid drought

The South Sumatra provincial government is implementing measures to maintain food security and stabilize rice prices amid a dry season. Governor Herman Deru stated that current rice stocks are sufficient to meet public demand for approximately ten months without additional supplies, noting that the province remains a key supplier of grain to neighboring provinces and regions outside of Sumatra.

To mitigate the impact of the drought on agricultural production, the government is providing water pumps to farmers to ensure crop irrigation. Additionally, the province is preparing rice kiosks to improve public access to affordable rice.

Simultaneously, authorities are investigating a reduction in the volume of premium rice available in over 600 modern retail outlets in Palembang. Regional Secretary Edward Candra noted that while rice is not currently scarce, the supply volume has decreased compared to normal levels. The Regional Inflation Control Team (TPID) plans to inspect factories and mills to identify the cause of the supply dip. In response, the government is encouraging increased distribution of Food Supply and Price Stabilization (SPHP) rice and conducting market operations to stabilize availability.