Checkpapuanow.com – Indonesian Presidential Chief of Staff, Anto Mukti Putranto, conducted an official visit to the Bulog Panaikang warehouse in Makassar on Monday, June 23, 2025. The visit aimed to directly assess the storage and distribution process of rice, particularly in preparation for shipments to Papua.
During the site inspection, Anto expressed appreciation for the operations carried out at the Makassar branch of the State Logistics Agency (Bulog). He emphasized that each stage of the process had been executed transparently and effectively, ensuring that the quality of rice delivered to the public remains consistently high.
“I observed the entire process from start to finish. Everything is well-managed, and the staff clearly work with dedication. The result is premium-grade rice, and such quality wouldn’t be possible without genuine effort,” Anto stated during the visit.
Anto also addressed the national rice stock situation, noting that Indonesia currently has a surplus. However, he highlighted the need to maintain strict quality control, particularly regarding the moisture content of the harvested rice supplied to Bulog. He explained that excessive moisture levels can hinder timely distribution and compromise rice quality.
“Our current surplus stands at 4 million tons, which is an impressive figure. Still, farmers must ensure that their rice meets the required moisture standards before entering Bulog’s system. Ideally, it should be reduced to 15 or even 14 percent. Sometimes we receive rice with moisture levels up to 20 percent, and that slows down the entire distribution chain,” Anto explained.
The Chief of Staff further inspected the warehouse’s readiness to support food security initiatives in Papua. He confirmed that the Makassar warehouse had prepared a substantial amount of rice to be delivered as part of the logistical support to the eastern region.
“As we can see here, food supplies for Papua are already being prepared. This facility alone has allocated 1,250 tons of rice ready for shipment,” he said.
Before concluding his visit, Anto underscored the importance of ensuring that the rice shipments arrive in optimal condition and are suitable for public consumption. He reminded all parties involved to maintain strict quality assurance throughout the delivery process.
“My message is simple: when these supplies are sent out, make sure they are handled properly and reach the community in good condition. The rice being distributed is of medium grade, but it is perfectly suitable for consumption,” he concluded.
Anto’s visit reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen food distribution channels, especially to remote regions like Papua, while maintaining high standards of quality and transparency across the national supply chain.
