President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, recently issued a warning to rice milling businesses involved in manipulative pricing practices that negatively impact farmers and the public. He made it clear that the government is prepared to step in and transfer these “rogue” rice milling operations to Merah Putih Village/Urban Cooperatives. The President’s strong stance is based on Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution, which highlights the importance of Indonesia’s national economy and the welfare of its people. He consulted with key judicial figures to ensure there was no misinterpretation of Article 33 Paragraph (2), which states that vital sectors affecting the livelihood of the people should be under state control.
During the launch of the Merah Putih Village Cooperative in Klaten, President Prabowo emphasized the significance of the rice milling sector and its impact on the people’s livelihoods. He revealed that certain rice millers were making enormous profits, prompting the government to intervene to protect farmers’ trade terms. In response to reports of rice labeled as “premium” turning out to be fake blends, the President condemned this fraudulent practice and instructed relevant authorities to investigate and take legal action.
Reports indicate that fraudulent activities by a small number of business groups are causing annual losses of IDR 100 trillion to the Indonesian people. President Prabowo labeled these actions as betrayals of the nation and called for strict legal repercussions. He views such practices as detrimental to Indonesia’s progress and prosperity and is committed to upholding the Constitution and enforcing the law to combat these issues.
