The Indonesian government has officially launched its Operasi Pasar Pangan Murah, or Affordable Food Market Operations, aiming to provide the public with access to affordable food prices as the holy month of Ramadan approaches. Led by Minister of Agriculture Amran Sulaiman, this initiative began on February 24, 2025, and is set to continue until March 29, 2025, just before Idulfitri.
With the participation of over 4,500 outlets from Pos Indonesia (PT Pos Indonesia), the operations are expected to effectively reach both urban and rural populations. This strategy ensures food prices remain stable during Ramadan, which is historically marked by increased demand for food.
“With 4,500 outlets of PT Pos Indonesia, this market operation can reach the wider community, both in cities and remote areas. This is a concrete step by the government to maintain food prices stable leading up to Ramadan,” Minister Amran stated during the operation's kickoff event held at the PT Pos Indonesia office in South Jakarta.
Set to begin at selected locations, including 325 sites across Indonesia—215 of these on Java Island and 110 outside of it—the market operations will expand distribution capabilities starting March 1, 2025, targeting all regions of the archipelago.
The Ramadan Market Operations focus on five key commodities: rice, cooking oil, sugar, garlic, and frozen buffalo meat—all offered at prices beneath the highest retail price (HET). For example, rice is available at IDR 12,000 per kilogram, just under the HET of IDR 12,500. Garlic is being sold for IDR 32,000 per kilogram against the HET of IDR 40,000. Similarly, prices for other staples are being reduced to help alleviate financial burdens for consumers.
“By utilizing the networks of BUMN Pangan and local technical implementation units, we aim to offer accessible food supplies at lower rates, thereby assisting all community layers,” Amran added, emphasizing the initiative's comprehensive outreach.
Faizal R. Djoemadi, the President Director of PosIND, expressed Pos Indonesia's commitment to supporting the government's goals. “We are prepared to contribute to ensuring staple foods are easily accessible by leveraging our extensive logistical network throughout Indonesia. Our role is to facilitate the smooth implementation of the Affordable Food Market Operations,” he stated.
This initiative is anticipated to play a significant role during Ramadan, which often sees increased consumer appetite for various food products leading up to Idulfitri. By addressing both urban and rural needs, the government aims to create stability within the food supply chain, promoting food availability across various regions.
This Ramadan, the operation intends to make food more accessible to the public as prices often fluctuate due to heightened demand. The government's collaborative efforts with multiple stakeholders showcase a solid commitment to food security and stability.
Through these endeavors, the Indonesian government hopes to alleviate potential hardships consumers may face during this pious month, ensuring all levels of society will experience the essence of Ramadan without the burden of exorbitant food prices.
Overall, the Operasi Pasar Pangan Murah seeks not only to meet immediate consumer needs during Ramadan but also to lay the groundwork for sustainable food management through proper distribution strategies. The approach taken is indicative of the government's proactive stance on ensuring food sovereignty and affordability for the nation's populace.