TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo ordered state-ministries to maintain control of the national supply of household staples and its prices amid the national emergency on coronavirus (COVID-19).

“I have surveyed the Bulog (state logistics agency) warehouse and conclude that we have more than enough supply,” said President Jokowi in a video conference meeting with the COVID-19 task force on Thursday, March 19.

The president also ordered Perum Bulog to manage rice production during harvest season that is forecasted to take place between March and April.

The meeting also mentioned the commencement of the planned national economic stimulus with President Jokowi ordering the Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Ailrangga Hartarto to implement the plan.

“Especially for businesses, and more specifically for small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) that are directly affected by the COVID-19 outbreak,” said the president.

Businesses are also called to adapt to the current condition where people are urged to practice social distancing. The president asked businesses to swiftly adapt by utilizing technologies that can support the government's policy.

Previously, the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) announced the extension of the COVID-19 national emergency status to May 29.

EKO WAHYUDI l EGY ADIYATAMA