I am happy and grateful. I hope this assistance would continue to boost the Indonesians' economyJakarta (ANTARA) - President Joko Widodo, on Wednesday, distributed cash assistance to residents affected by the hike in prices of staples due to the El Nino phenomenon in Banyuwangi, East Java.
Widodo stated that the distribution of cash assistance aimed at boosting the people's purchasing power amid the inflation in prices of staples.
"The El Nino cash assistance is for purchasing the goods and rice whose prices have increased. This is to cover them," he told the aid recipients, as quoted from a press release received here.
In addition to the Rp400 thousand (US$26) of cash assistance, the government has distributed 10 kg of rice to each beneficiary since September 2023.
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"We will continue the 10-kg rice assistance in January, February, and March next year," Widodo remarked.
Sumiatun, one of the aid beneficiaries, said she was grateful for the government's assistance in helping her to procure essential goods. She expressed hope that the aid would continue to boost the people's purchasing power.
"I am happy and grateful. I hope this assistance would continue to boost the Indonesians' economy," she remarked.
During the visit to Banyuwangi, Widodo was accompanied by Trade Minister Zulkifli Hasan, East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa, and Banyuwangi District Head Ipuk Fiestiandani.
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Earlier, Widodo and his entourage arrived at the Banyuwangi International Airport at around 8 a.m. local time.
According to the government's data, some 111,127 families in Banyuwangi are eligible to receive the El Nino cash assistance.
The distribution has started on December 20, 2023, through the post office.
President Widodo was also scheduled to visit Rogojampi Market where he distributed cash and essential goods assistance to the local community and traders.
Related news: Widodo disburses El Nino aid to boost people's purchasing power
Translator: Rangga J, Kenzu
Editor: Jafar M Sidik
Copyright © ANTARA 2023
