REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA -- The state-owned logistics company Perum Bulog confirmed here on Tuesday that the national rice stock was sufficient to meet the needs of the people ahead of the upcoming Islamic fasting month and Eid holiday.

"Bulog's stock is secure. Right now, the stock is adequate to meet the demand for five months," company secretary Djoni Nur Ashari stated during a press conference.

He noted that Bulog's current rice stock reached 1.3 million tons, which is adequate to meet the country's needs for five months.

The company domestically procures an average of 25 thousand tons per day, or a total of 1.1 million tons out of the target of 2.754 million tons this year.

"It is hoped that the stock will continue to increase as harvest is still continuing," he remarked.

Regarding the price security of rice, Djoni emphasized that if necessary, Bulog is ready to conduct market operations.

"Let us just wait and observe the trend. We are ready to conduct market operations if needed," he noted.

Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman had earlier given assurance that the rice supply was sufficient to meet the needs of the people ahead of the fasting month, which will begin in the middle of next month and Lebaran (Eid).

"It is safe. We can assure it is secure until Lebaran," he claimed last Wednesday.

He expressed hope that the supply would be met from local stocks, so that the government does not have to import.

With regard to the price, the minister is of the view point that distribution will still be the main reason for a price hike.

"In view of that, distribution must be carried out properly. We have given suggestions to Bulog. The solution is that Bulog must buy directly from the farmers and if it does that, it will be beneficial to both the farmers and consumers as they would be able to enjoy a stable price," he added.

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