According to a press release from his office in Jakarta, President Jokowi was greeted by local merchants upon his arrival at the traditional market.
Thereafter, he approached several stalls of merchants to inquire about the recent prices of various staple commodities, including rice, chilies, and shallots.
"It has been about two weeks since my last visit to a market. I wanted to review (prices) at the Mungkid Market," he remarked after his inspection.
Jokowi noted that based on reports received from merchants, the Mungkin Market is still offering staple goods at reasonable prices. For instance, the price of chili pepper has been stable at Rp30 thousand (US$1.9) per kilogram.
"Almost all commodities are being sold at good prices. I have learned that chili pepper and shallots are being offered at Rp30 thousand and Rp20-22 thousand (US$1.2-1.39) per kilogram, respectively. Rice is the only commodity whose prices increased," he pointed out.
The president opined that rice prices had increased since Indonesia has not yet entered the harvest period. He expects the prices to go down once the country stores abundant rice stocks.
"We have yet to enter the great harvesting period. I believe that once we welcome the period, we will have an abundant supply of rice, leading to a decline in its prices," he said.
In addition to reviewing the prices, the head of state personally distributed social aid to local merchants.
Nunung, a merchant selling chickens, expressed joy for the aid she had received from President Jokowi.
"I will use the aid as business capital and savings. Hopefully, the aid distribution will continue. I wish Mr. Jokowi success," she stated.
Another merchant, Tosin, praised the president as a humble leader who genuinely cares for his people. He also expressed hope that Indonesia would continue to witness stable prices of basic commodities and a stronger economy.
Acting Governor of Central Java Nana Sudjana, among others, accompanied President Jokowi during his visit.
