President Prabowo Subianto strongly criticized corrupt practices within Indonesia’s rice trade during his speech at the 27th anniversary of the National Awakening Party (PKB). He vowed to take action against companies involved in repackaging and inflating the price of subsidized rice, estimating that these practices are causing annual losses of up to Rp100 trillion for the country.
Prabowo emphasized that despite the subsidies provided for various stages of rice production, including seeds, fertilizer, pesticides, irrigation systems, and fuel for farming equipment, some companies repackage the rice as “premium” and sell it at a significantly higher price. He condemned this practice as a criminal act that not only robs the people but also violates the Constitution.
The President disclosed that 212 rice milling companies have been identified as guilty of such schemes, and he demanded that they return the profits gained through dishonest means. He highlighted the substantial losses incurred each year, which could otherwise have been directed towards improving public services across Indonesia.
Taking a firm stance, President Prabowo instructed the National Police Chief and the Attorney General to investigate, prosecute, and confiscate the assets of companies involved in corrupt rice distribution practices. He emphasized that his actions are based on the constitutional mandate to control sectors vital to the state, including rice, corn, and cooking oil, to ensure the well-being of the people.
Prabowo’s commitment to cracking down on corruption in the rice trade reflects his determination to uphold the principles of justice and fairness as mandated by the Constitution.
