Jakarta. President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo discussed food price stability, preparations for the Eid exodus (mudik), and fiscal policies for 2025 during a cabinet meeting with ministry and agency leaders at the State Palace on Monday.

"As we enter March, we are approaching Ramadan, and in April, we will celebrate Eid al-Fitr. I urge all relevant ministries and agencies to be vigilant and ensure that the public can worship peacefully and devoutly," said Jokowi.

The President highlighted the government's role in ensuring a peaceful worship environment, particularly through monitoring the stability of prices and the availability of food stocks, especially basic commodities.

"Also, accelerate the distribution of all social protection and social safety net packages," added Jokowi.

Earlier, the Indonesian Traditional Market Traders Association (Ikappi) revealed that market traders' revenue had plummeted by up to 50 percent due to the recent increase in rice prices reaching up to Rp 18,000 ($1.15) per kilogram.

The President also urged relevant ministries to adequately prepare infrastructure and transportation modes for the annual exodus (mudik). 

In 2023, the Transportation Ministry estimated that 123 million people embarked on the annual exodus or approximately half of Indonesia's population.

Furthermore, Jokowi mentioned that the meeting also addressed the government's work plan and fiscal policies for 2025, even though his terms end in October. The potential successor, Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto, has consistently expressed his commitment to continuing Jokowi's agendas if elected.

"Even though we are waiting for the official election results from the General Election Commission (KPU), the 2025 State Budget draft must be prepared because the elected president will implement it," he said.

In the context of the 2025 macroeconomic outlook, Jokowi urged the ministries to exercise caution regarding global economic uncertainties, while remaining optimistic and realistic in setting growth targets.

"With several countries already entering into recession, we need to exercise caution and credibility in setting growth targets and formulate plans to address possible upheavals and crises," concluded Jokowi.