PAPUA – The Central Papua Provincial Government continues to show its commitment in maintaining the welfare of the community through various strategic steps, one of which is ensuring food price stability ahead of the new year. This effort can be seen from the direct review of the Acting Governor of Central Papua, Anwar Harun Damanik, to shopping centers in Nabire, Friday (27/12/2024).
Accompanied by Central Papua Police Chief Inspector General Alfred Papare, Pj. Secretary of Central Papua Frets James Boray, and Nabire Regent Mesak Magai, Anwar emphasized the importance of this step as a form of anticipation to face the potential increase in food prices.
“Nabire is the main door for the distribution of agricultural products from outside Central Papua. This monitoring is done so that people can celebrate the new year without the burden of rising prices of basic needs,” Anwar said.
One of the main focuses of the Provincial Government is to maintain the stability of food prices that are under pressure due to extreme weather. For example, tomato stocks were reduced due to high rainfall. However, Anwar ensured that the government has brought in an additional supply of up to 70 crates from outside the region. To reduce prices, tomatoes will be subsidized to a maximum of Rp30,000 per kilogram at the retailer level.
The same applies to chili peppers, which have been in the spotlight due to alleged price-gouging practices. Anwar emphasized that the government will not remain silent. “We are targeting a maximum chili price of Rp50,000 per kilogram. If stocks are lacking, we are ready to bring in from outside and provide additional subsidies,” he said.
Beef is also a concern. With an original price of Rp180,000 per kilogram, the government plans to reduce the price to Rp150,000 per kilogram through subsidies. “This is a concrete step so that people can still enjoy quality food at affordable prices,” Anwar said.
Not only overcoming the supply problem, the Central Papua Provincial Government also promised to take firm action against individuals who are proven to play price games in the market. “If anyone tries to make unreasonable profits, they will face the law directly,” Anwar threatened.
The Regent of Nabire, Mesak Magai, gave high appreciation to the provincial government’s proactive steps. “This is a strategic step that is very beneficial for the community. I am optimistic that food prices in Nabire will be stable, so that all community needs can be met properly,” he said.
This monitoring step is clear evidence of the seriousness of the Central Papua Provincial Government in creating economic stability and supporting community welfare. This ongoing effort is expected to provide a sense of security to Central Papuans ahead of the New Year celebrations.
