The Ministry of Finance (Kemenkeu) has underscored the critical importance of robust food security measures, warning that a lack thereof could easily ignite social unrest. Tri Budhianto, Director for Economic and Maritime Affairs at the Directorate General of Budget (DJA) within Kemenkeu, highlighted that communities facing food scarcity are inherently more susceptible to provocation.
Tri cited a compelling example of the direct correlation between food insecurity and social upheaval: the looting incident at a retail store in Sibolga, North Sumatra. This event, which occurred in the wake of a devastating flood, was attributed to the severe shortage of food supplies in the affected area.
“The clearest example was seen in recent disaster areas. As soon as food becomes scarce, such incidents inevitably follow,” Tri Budhianto stated during a Media Working Visit in Karawang on Tuesday.
He further elaborated that the public cannot be faulted for such reactions, as the dire conditions stemming from a post-disaster food shortage invariably lead to hunger. Therefore, ensuring Indonesia’s self-sufficiency in meeting its food needs is paramount.
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It is precisely for this reason that the State Revenue and Expenditure Budget (APBN) includes a dedicated allocation for food security. According to Tri, through this budget, the government aims to guarantee that the provision of essential food supplies plays a fundamentally vital role in maintaining national stability.
“We can easily imagine the widespread chaos and riots that would ensue if our food supply were insufficient,” he asserted.
Food Security Budget to See Significant Increase in 2026
In a strong testament to this commitment, the government plans to substantially increase the food budget within the 2026 APBN. While the food security budget in the 2025 APBN stood at Rp 144.6 trillion, it is projected to rise to Rp 210.4 trillion for the upcoming year.
“This increase is expected to boost productivity, ensure price stability is maintained, and ultimately enhance the welfare of farmers and fishermen,” Tri explained, outlining the ambitious goals behind the expanded funding.
The comprehensive budget allocation is earmarked for various crucial initiatives, including food distribution and strategic reserves. It will also support vital programs such as fertilizer production subsidies, the development of food barns, and the establishment of up to 250 Red and White Fishermen Villages. Furthermore, a portion of the funds will address consumption-related needs, providing assistance for food insecurity and stabilizing food supply and prices across the nation.
