Jakarta. Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman voiced frustration over the discovery of illegal imports entering through Tanjung Sengkuang Public Port in Batam, Riau Islands, including 2.04 tons of cooking oil.

Amran said the findings were “deeply ironic,” saying that Indonesia is the world’s largest crude palm oil producer yet illegal cooking oil is still entering the country, undermining the livelihoods of 10 million farmers.

“This is very ironic. We are the world’s biggest producer, but illegal cooking oil enters the country. Why is this happening?” Amran said during a press conference at his residence in South Jakarta on Tuesday.

“Don’t underestimate this. The psychological impact can demotivate our farmers. If they lose trust, they produce less, and then we import again,” he added.

Beyond cooking oil, a joint operation by the Agriculture Ministry and other agencies uncovered additional illegal goods. The list includes 40.4 tons of rice, the second major rice finding after the 250-ton Sabang case, along with 4.5 tons of sugar, 600 kilograms of wheat flour, 900 liters of milk, 240 pieces of perfume, 360 packs of imported noodles, and 30 boxes of frozen food.

All seized goods are now secured by the Riau Islands Police, and Amran said legal proceedings will move forward.

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