Medan. The Government Rice Reserve stock in North Sumatra has reached the highest level in history. As of April 23, 2026, Perum Bulog for the North Sumatra region stored 63,000 tons of rice, while nationally it reached 5 million tons.

The Regional Head of Perum Bulog North Sumatra, Budi Cahyanto, said this achievement is proof of the success of food self-sufficiency in Indonesia.

“The rice stock in Bulog warehouses throughout Indonesia has indeed reached 5 million tons, and for the North Sumatra region it is 63,000 tons. This is the highest rice stock in history since Indonesia’s independence,” said Budi on Friday (April 24, 2026).

He explained that the high rice stock is the result of collaboration among various parties in supporting national food security. With strong reserves, Bulog not only acts as a stabilizer but also as a key driver in the food ecosystem.

According to him, this rice stock serves as a strategic instrument to curb price volatility, anticipate emergency conditions, and support various government programs such as the Supply and Price Stabilization program, food assistance, and disaster management.

“These rice stocks are now evenly distributed across the North Sumatra region,” he said.

Bulog also continues to purchase grain from farmers at a price of Rp 6,500 per kilogram. This grain is then processed into rice to meet the needs of government programs.

Grain Absorption from Farmers
Budi revealed that so far, the agency has absorbed 20,820 tons of grain from farmers, an increase of 15 percent compared to the same period last year which was 18,120 tons.

This high absorption also impacts storage capacity. Several Bulog warehouses in various areas such as Medan, Pematang Siantar, and Asahan are reported to be full, so Bulog has had to rent additional warehouses.

“We are optimistic that the absorption achievement in North Sumatra will continue to increase compared to last year,” he said.

Amid uncertain global conditions that could potentially trigger food price increases, Budi assured that rice availability in North Sumatra is safe and abundant.

“The public does not need to worry. Bulog rice is ready to be used according to government regulations in the Supply and Price Stabilization program and food assistance,” he emphasized.

Medan

Medan is the capital of North Sumatra, Indonesia, and a major economic hub known for its diverse cultural heritage. Its history dates back to the 16th century as a small village, but it grew rapidly in the late 19th century under Dutch colonial rule, becoming a center for the tobacco and rubber trade. Today, Medan is famed for its blend of Malay, Batak, Chinese, and Indian influences, with landmarks like the Maimun Palace and Great Mosque reflecting its rich past.

North Sumatra

North Sumatra is an Indonesian province on the island of Sumatra, known for its diverse culture and stunning natural landscapes, including Lake Toba—a massive volcanic lake formed by a supervolcanic eruption around 74,000 years ago. Historically, the region was home to powerful kingdoms like the Batak and later became a key Dutch colonial plantation area for tobacco and rubber. Today, it blends traditional Batak heritage with modern urban centers like Medan, the provincial capital.

Indonesia

Indonesia is a Southeast Asian archipelago nation with over 17,000 islands, known for its immense cultural and biological diversity. Its history includes powerful Hindu-Buddhist kingdoms like Srivijaya and Majapahit, followed by centuries of Dutch colonial rule, and a struggle for independence proclaimed in 1945. Today, it is the world’s largest Muslim-majority country, with a vibrant blend of indigenous traditions, languages, and modern influences.

Pematang Siantar

Pematang Siantar is a city in North Sumatra, Indonesia, historically known as a major trading hub during the Dutch colonial era, particularly for rubber and palm oil. Its name, meaning “long swamp” in the local language, reflects its geographic origins. Today, it is a culturally diverse city with notable landmarks like the Siantar Zoo and the Balai Kota, symbolizing its colonial and modern heritage.

Asahan

Asahan is a region in North Sumatra, Indonesia, historically part of the powerful Sultanate of Asahan, which was established in the 17th century. The sultanate played a significant role in regional trade and politics until its dissolution after Indonesian independence. Today, the area is known for its cultural heritage, including traditional Malay architecture and the remnants of the royal palace.