EN
ID
ACTNews, BATAM
– One of the prevalent problems in Indonesia’s peripheral regions is the
lack of access to affordable food. Because they are located far from the
mainland, the food prices in this area are higher compared to those in urban
areas.
Khairul Hafidz
from the Aksi Cepat Tanggap (ACT) Branch of Riau Islands said the food prices
were higher because the sellers had to cover the logistics costs.
“This is the case
on Panjang Island in Batam. The prices of fruits and vegetables are 70 percent
higher compared to those in the cities," said Khairul, Monday (4/25/2022).
The majority of
the residents of Pulau Panjang are traditional fishermen with low incomes,
making the problem even more difficult because food is barely affordable for
the locals.
"Alhamdulillah,
on Saturday (4/23/2022), we delivered Ramadan food packages from generous
donors to the residents on Panjang Island. We also held a free clinic to provide
the locals with free medical treatments,” concluded Khairul.[]
