Indonesia to Release Special Rice Reserves for Disaster Zones

Government Initiative to Prevent Food Shortages

Indonesia's Minister of Home Affairs, Tito Karnavian, announced that the government is prepared to release special rice reserves to address potential food shortages in disaster-affected regions. The decision was made during a press conference at Halim Perdanakusumah Airbase in Jakarta on December 3, 2025.

Regions Affected and Distribution Mechanism

The regions identified as being at risk and eligible for these special rice reserves include Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. Local governments in these areas are required to submit a request to the National Food Agency (Bapanas), which will then coordinate with Bulog to release the rice stocks from government warehouses. The distribution process is designed to be rapid and without quantity limits, ensuring that affected communities receive the necessary food supplies.

Significance of the Government's Decision

The government's ability to release these rice reserves is seen as a critical measure to prevent food shortages and maintain stability in regions affected by natural disasters. By having a mechanism in place for the quick distribution of food supplies, the government aims to mitigate the humanitarian impact of such disasters.