Jakarta (ANTARA) - Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan stated that National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo plays a crucial role in accelerating the food self-sufficiency program under President Prabowo Subianto's administration.
While attending the 15th Congress of the Persatuan Ummat Islam (PUI) organization here on Tuesday, Hasan explained that the Police chief's role is not merely symbolic but strategic in fostering cross-sectoral synergy to realize Astacita, or the main missions of President Prabowo.
He noted that the police's participation in corn cultivation programs across various regions is tangible proof that food security has now become a cross-institutional priority rather than solely the concern of technical ministries.
He also commended the police chief's active engagement in several agendas held by various organizations.
He explained that with the police's support, food distribution and production processes have become more efficient and effective.
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Additionally, Hasan drew attention to the issue of unprofitable unhusked rice prices for farmers due to previous regulations on rice procurement by the state logistics agency Bulog.
When he served as trade minister, the price of unhusked rice was capped at Rp4,450 per kilogram due to a previous presidential regulation.
After communication with various stakeholders, including the police, the price of unhusked rice has now increased to Rp6,500 per kilogram.
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However, he acknowledged ongoing challenges in controlling middlemen and rice mills, which often purchase unhulled rice below the government’s reference price.
Furthermore, Minister Hasan stated that the Police chief’s participation in the government's food programs reflects the collaborative leadership model promoted by President Prabowo.
Under the Astacita vision, food self-sufficiency is not just about increasing production but also about strengthening national political and security structures to ensure food sovereignty.
