President Prabowo Subianto recently made a bold statement regarding the regulation of large-scale rice mills in Indonesia. In a State of the Nation Address in Jakarta, he emphasized the government’s commitment to preventing profiteering at the expense of the people’s basic needs. Prabowo asserted that no entity, regardless of wealth or influence, is exempt from the law.
Under the authority granted by the constitution and trade laws, Prabowo warned that businesses engaging in hoarding essential goods during shortages could face severe penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines. He made it clear that the government will not hesitate to take decisive action to protect the interests of the Indonesian people and prevent exploitation for maximum profit.
In line with the principles laid down by the nation’s founders, Prabowo emphasized the importance of keeping critical industries under state control. He referenced historical figures like Bung Karno, Bung Hatta, and Bung Sjahrir as proponents of this approach. As part of this strategy, the government will implement stricter regulations requiring large-scale rice milling operations to secure special permits to operate.
Prabowo’s announcement serves as a clear message to industry players that prioritizing the people’s access to essential goods is non-negotiable. He urged businesses to comply with the new regulations or transition into other sectors to avoid interfering with the public’s basic needs. By taking a firm stance on this issue, Prabowo aims to uphold the legacy of Indonesia’s founding fathers and ensure that the country’s resources are managed in the best interest of its citizens.
