"We came here to handle inflation and monitor the prices of staple goods," Jokowi noted in South Lampung.
According to the president, the prices of staple goods, such as eggs, chilies, shallots, and garlic, were still under control.
For instance, eggs are still priced in the range of Rp26 thousand to Rp27 thousand per kilogram.
"While the price of chili is very cheap, at only Rp20 thousand per kilogram; the price of shallots is Rp30 thousand per kilogram; and garlic is also cheap," he revealed.
Jokowi noted that the decreasing prices of staple goods also played a role in the low inflation rate.
"The decreased prices of staple goods was caused by surplus supply, so the prices were under control," he explained.
In addition, the people's purchasing power has also increased, given that prices are affordable and supply is abundant, the head of state remarked.
During his visit, the president warned the community and traders to maintain supply and avoid shortages.
To this end, he noted that one of the most important aspects of maintaining the food supply is through road infrastructure to reduce logistics costs.
"Road infrastructure is very important to facilitate transportation and also reduce logistics costs," he remarked.
The president noted that the Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR) Ministry would take over the repairs of provincial, district, and city roads that had been severely damaged.
"If the local government's financial support is unable to repair the road, the PUPR Ministry will take over the repairs," he emphasized.
According to Jokowi, road infrastructure is very important to reduce logistics costs. Hence, any damaged roads must be repaired immediately.
Moreover, logistics costs really depend on the good condition of road infrastructure, he added.
During his visit to Lampung, the head of state will also inspect several damaged roads in the province.
"Apart from monitoring inflation, I will also observe (the condition of) roads in Lampung Province," he remarked.
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Translator: Agus Wira S, Resinta S
Editor: Sri Haryati
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