August 15, 2026 | 06:49 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesia announced plans to export 1,000 metric tons of premium rice to Malaysia, with state-run logistics company Bulog describing the planned shipment as a showcase of the country’s growing food security as it marks its 81st Independence Day anniversary.
“As the 81st anniversary of Independence Day draws closer, we demonstrate Indonesia’s capacity to penetrate international markets with ample stocks, which reflect farmers’ hard work, government support, and proper management,” Bulog President Director Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani said in Jakarta on Saturday, as quoted from Antara.
He made the statement after Bulog signed a memorandum of understanding with Malaysia’s Padi dan Beras Borneo Sdn. Bhd. in Jakarta on Friday evening, August 14, 2026, witnessed by Indonesian Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman.
Ramdhani noted the trade deal as an anniversary gift for Indonesia and evidence of the country's increasingly resilient food system, supported by sufficient domestic supplies and room for exports.
He attributed the agreement to Indonesia’s growing rice output in recent years, with the government rice reserves standing at around 5.2 million metric tons.
Elaborating on implementation, he said the initial shipment of 1,000 tons would serve as the first consignment under the partnership, with annual exports expected to gradually increase to 200,000 tons.
“Maintaining national food security remains Bulog’s top priority,” Ramdhani said, emphasizing the importance of capitalizing on strong production trends to seize export opportunities.
He underscored the company’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with domestic and international partners, including government institutions, to support food security while improving farmers’ welfare and expanding markets.
Minister Sulaiman made a similar statement earlier, saying the export agreement reflected a testament to Indonesia’s confidence as it turns 81.
“With stocks reaching around 5.2 million tons, we begin talking about exports. This development proves that Indonesia is growing stronger and more confident,” he said after the signing.
The minister also assured the public that food exports would not undermine domestic supplies.
Read: Is Indonesia Truly Food Self-Sufficient, as Prabowo Claims?
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