This measure aims to prevent rice mill operators from purchasing rice grain from farmers at prices below this threshold.
“The purchase price for harvested dry grain from farmers is Rp6,500. I am serious about this. This is a national issue. Entrepreneurs should make a profit, but not arbitrarily. All stakeholders -- producers, farmers, businesses, and consumers -- must benefit,” Prabowo stated on Monday.
The president made the remarks at the Ministry of Agriculture office, emphasizing that Indonesia will not adopt the free market principles indiscriminately.
He noted that Indonesia should emulate the successes of other nations in applying free market policies while ensuring farmers' welfare and achieving food self-sufficiency.
President Prabowo made an impromptu visit to the Ministry of Agriculture to obtain a report on the food self-sufficiency program.
Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman highlighted several successes, including a rise in rice production over the past three months, the highest growth recorded in the last three years.
After hearing the report, the president reiterated the critical importance of food security for national sovereignty and independence.
"If we want to become a developed country, food security is a must. I ask everyone to commit to this goal with sincerity and love for our homeland," Prabowo affirmed.
The president also cautioned entrepreneurs who resist government policies, suggesting they should close their businesses if they are unwilling to comply.
“If you do not agree, then close your business and do not operate a rice mill. The state will take control of it. This is a matter of survival,” he declared.
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Translator: Genta M, Kenzu
Editor: Primayanti
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