Bandung Barat Government Prepares Rice Reserve to Counter Food Insecurity Amid Dry Season

The Bandung Barat regional government is proactively addressing potential food shortages and natural disaster risks during the upcoming dry season. Officials have prepared a reserve of premium rice, totaling 145.37 tons to be procured between 2022 and 2025, to ensure the community's food security.

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This is proof the government is present for the people who need it, not just providing during a disaster. I want people to be comfortable and their food security to be met.

Bupati Bandung Barat, Jeje Ritchie Ismail, emphasized the government's commitment to its citizens, stating, "This is proof the government is present for the people who need it, not just providing during a disaster. I want people to be comfortable and their food security to be met." He has instructed the local Food and Agriculture Security Agency (DKPP) to closely monitor food availability, particularly with the anticipated long dry season due to El Nino.

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I also ordered the DKPP if there are still people who need or lack food, the regional government is ready.

Lukmanul Hakim, head of the DKPP, highlighted the critical role of food reserves as a buffer against imbalances in production and demand. These reserves are crucial for managing various situations, including natural disasters, food insecurity, emergencies, stunting prevention, and controlling inflation. The regional government collaborates with the State Logistics Agency (Bulog) for the procurement and distribution of this reserve rice, ensuring a swift response during emergencies.

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The existence of food reserves is also crucial for handling various situations, from natural disasters, food insecurity, emergency conditions, stunting handling, to efforts to control inflation and maintain the stability of basic needs prices.

Agus Hendarsyah, head of Food Security at DKPP, explained that the distribution of reserve rice is governed by local regulations. The mechanisms include a top-down approach for emergency situations like natural disasters or food crises, and a bottom-up approach where communities can request assistance. The focus on premium rice ensures quality for those in need.

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If these things happen, there is a regional food reserve stock, we carry out interventions for the affected community.