Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The National Food Agency (Bapanas) has finalized plans to export 2,280 tons of premium Indonesian rice to Saudi Arabia to cater to over 205,000 domestic pilgrims during the 2026 Hajj season. 

Following a high-level ministerial meeting on Monday (9/2/2026), Bapanas Secretary Main Sarwo Edhy confirmed that state logistics company Bulog has been officially tasked with supplying high-quality "Nusantara" rice, moving away from previous reliance on foreign imports.

"This is not just about logistics; it is a matter of national pride that our pilgrims consume high-quality domestic rice rather than supplies from other countries," said Bulog President Director Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani, as cited by antaranews.com.

The government aims to begin shipments by the third week of February, utilizing fresh harvests to meet the 5% broken premium standard. 

This strategic move leverages Indonesia's surging rice reserves, which saw a 440% increase in domestic absorption this year compared to 2025. By supplying home-grown grains, officials ensure both the welfare of Indonesian farmers and the culinary comfort of pilgrims abroad.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)