By: Ricky Rinaldi
Ramadan is a blessed moment for Muslims worldwide, including in Indonesia. Besides being a month full of worship and togetherness, Ramadan also presents significant challenges, particularly in food supply. The increased demand for food during this holy month often leads to price surges that can burden the public, especially those with limited purchasing power. Therefore, to ensure that people can observe Ramadan peacefully without being troubled by soaring prices, synergy between the government and the private sector is crucial in maintaining food supply stability.
Minister of Agriculture, Amran Sulaiman, emphasized that the government has prepared concrete measures to address the surge in demand during Ramadan. One of these measures includes conducting large-scale market operations for commodities that frequently experience price hikes, such as meat, sugar, and cooking oil. These market operations are not only conducted in major cities but also target regions prone to significant price increases, particularly those far from production centers. Through coordination with Bulog and relevant agencies, it is expected that food supplies will be evenly distributed across all regions, ensuring that people do not struggle to obtain essential goods.
Local governments also play a vital role in maintaining food price stability at the regional level. The Mayor of Samarinda, Andi Harun, stated that at the local level, the government must be proactive in addressing price fluctuations that typically occur before Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. Based on last year’s experience, inflation in the food, beverage, and tobacco sector at the beginning of Ramadan was recorded at 0.41 percent. Therefore, coordination with various stakeholders is key to keeping inflation under control and maintaining people’s purchasing power. As part of price stabilization efforts, the Samarinda City Government has partnered with food-producing regions such as Pinrang Regency to facilitate the supply of essential goods to the city. With this strategy, harmful price spikes can be avoided.
In addition to government initiatives, the private sector also plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth flow of food supply chains. Major retail companies have started optimizing their staple food stocks in warehouses, ensuring that when demand surges, distribution can proceed smoothly without significant disruptions. Maintaining sufficient stock in the private sector is essential as they help ensure market availability remains stable. Furthermore, the private sector contributes by ensuring that food distribution reaches consumers at fair prices, without excessive profit margins.
Moreover, the private sector also implements reserve stock strategies to prevent shortages during critical periods. Advancements in food storage technology allow food products to last longer while maintaining quality until they reach consumers. Proper food storage is crucial in preventing waste caused by damaged or expired goods, ensuring that food remains available in sufficient quantities at affordable prices.
The public also plays an equally important role in maintaining food price stability. Wise consumers purchase food according to their needs without excessive buying, which could lead to shortages. Over-purchasing often triggers price spikes as supply struggles to meet the sudden surge in demand. Therefore, education on healthy and efficient consumption is essential to help individuals contribute to market balance. The government and various social organizations have been working to raise public awareness of the importance of wise consumption patterns, especially in response to increased demand during Ramadan.
Beyond distribution and stock management, the government continues to encourage domestic food production to reduce dependency on imports. Food security programs and local farmer empowerment are key focuses to ensure sustainable food availability. The government also supports the development of agricultural technology, enabling farmers to increase productivity and meet domestic food needs independently. Consequently, reliance on food imports can be minimized, strengthening national food security.
The synergy between the government and the private sector in maintaining food supply chains during Ramadan has a profoundly positive impact on society. Essential goods prices become more stable, supply is more secure, and people do not have to worry about sudden price hikes. With thorough planning and strong coordination, Ramadan can be observed more comfortably without excessive economic burdens. Moving forward, this synergy must be continuously reinforced to strengthen national food security and address any potential challenges that may arise in the future.
