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| West Kalimantan Governor Ria Norsan launches Ramadan Cheap Market in Pontianak to curb food inflation, stabilize prices, and boost household purchasing power amid rising staple costs. |
PONTIANAK, West Kalimantan – February 25, 2026. Ria Norsan, Governor of West Kalimantan, officially opened a Ramadan Cheap Market program at the courtyard of Masjid Al-Muawwanah on Wednesday, aiming to stabilize food prices and protect household purchasing power during the holy month.
The initiative was introduced as a strategic response by the provincial government to rising prices of essential food commodities, which have contributed to regional inflation in recent weeks. By offering staple goods below prevailing market prices, the program seeks to ease the financial burden on families observing Ramadan.
Food Price Surge Drives Inflation Concerns
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| West Kalimantan Governor Ria Norsan launches Ramadan Cheap Market in Pontianak to curb food inflation, stabilize prices, and boost household purchasing power amid rising staple costs. |
Governor Ria Norsan explained that the recent inflationary pressure has been largely fueled by sharp increases in the prices of key kitchen staples, particularly shallots and chili peppers. These ingredients are widely used in daily cooking across Indonesia, making their price spikes especially impactful for low- and middle-income households.
“Through this Cheap Market program, we hope to strengthen people’s purchasing power by providing affordable food supplies,” the governor said during the opening ceremony.
According to local officials, the rise in food prices has been felt across traditional markets, affecting both consumers and small vendors. The Ramadan Cheap Market is designed to create short-term price stability while ensuring that supply chains remain sufficient throughout the fasting month.
Affordable Food Access During Ramadan
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| West Kalimantan Governor Ria Norsan launches Ramadan Cheap Market in Pontianak to curb food inflation, stabilize prices, and boost household purchasing power amid rising staple costs. |
Beyond economic stabilization, the initiative carries strong social significance. Ramadan is a time of reflection, generosity, and solidarity, and the provincial government wants this program to reflect those values.
In addition to helping control inflation, the Cheap Market aims to ensure that basic food items remain accessible to all layers of society. Families can purchase staple goods at reduced prices, helping them manage daily expenses such as sahur and iftar meals without sacrificing nutrition or quality.
The governor also encouraged residents to maintain unity and use the momentum of Ramadan to strengthen community ties.
“This program is not only about economic relief but also about sharing and supporting one another during a blessed month,” she added.
Supporting Household Economic Resilience
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| West Kalimantan Governor Ria Norsan launches Ramadan Cheap Market in Pontianak to curb food inflation, stabilize prices, and boost household purchasing power amid rising staple costs. |
The Ramadan Cheap Market program is expected to ease household financial pressures, especially for families whose incomes are stretched by higher living costs. By directly intervening in the retail distribution of staple goods, the provincial government hopes to reduce speculative price increases and stabilize the regional economy.
Officials emphasized that maintaining affordable food availability is critical to preventing further inflation spikes. The government will continue monitoring market conditions and coordinating with suppliers and distributors to ensure consistent stock levels.
For many residents, the initiative represents timely support at a moment when food price volatility could otherwise disrupt daily life during Ramadan.
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| West Kalimantan Governor Ria Norsan launches Ramadan Cheap Market in Pontianak to curb food inflation, stabilize prices, and boost household purchasing power amid rising staple costs. |
FAQ
1. What is the Ramadan Cheap Market program?
It is a government-led initiative that sells staple food items below market prices to help stabilize inflation and support household purchasing power during Ramadan.
2. Why was the program launched?
The program was introduced in response to rising prices of key commodities such as shallots and chili peppers, which have contributed to regional inflation.
3. Where was the program officially opened?
The launch took place at the courtyard of Masjid Al-Muawwanah in Pontianak, West Kalimantan.
4. Who benefits from the Cheap Market?
Low- and middle-income families, as well as the broader community, benefit from more affordable access to essential food supplies.
5. Will similar programs continue in the future?
Provincial authorities indicated they will continue monitoring inflation and may implement similar measures if needed to maintain price stability.