Jakarta (ANTARA) - State-run logistics enterprise PT Pos Indonesia (Persero) is ready to distribute rice social aid to 13 million beneficiary families (KPMs) in several regions in the country starting from April 5, 2023.

Courier and Logistics Business Director at PT Pos Indonesia (Persero) Siti Choriana stated that the company is entrusted with distributing rice from state-owned logistics firm Perum Bulog to 13 million families.

Every family in this case will receive 10 kg of rice, she noted through a statement on Tuesday.

"On April 5, 2023, distribution will be done simultaneously across Indonesia. We expect that we can complete this first stage before Eid al-Fitr," she remarked.

PT Pos Indonesia will distribute the rice in three stages: April, May, and June.

According to Choriana, the company will distribute rice to 13 million families from the total of 21.3 million, who are currently receiving assignments from the state, while the rest are distributed by other government partners.

This rice aid is a follow-up from President Joko Widodo's instruction during a recent meeting with related ministers and institutional heads.

The president decided that the rice aid should be given before Eid al-Fitr up to three months in the future to maintain food stability and curb the spike in inflation.

Given its past success in distributing social aid, Pos Indonesia is optimistic of being able to achieve the target.

The rice distribution had begun from the easternmost region of Indonesia, such as Jayapura, Fakfak, and Merauke in Papua.

"This program is for all provinces, include the 3T (underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost). We along with Bulog distribute it in Papua first. The government expects us to do it in the eastern region first," Choriana stated.

In a bid to ensure smooth distribution, the company always coordinates with local regional governments, Bulog, as well as military and police officers for ensuring security.

With well-organized and thorough preparations, the company believes that rice distribution can proceed smoothly and accurately.

The company expects that the distribution of rice can be beneficial for recipients in welcoming Eid al-Fitr.

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Translator: Subagyo, Fadhli Ruhman
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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