JAYAPURA — The Papua Provincial Government continues to promote stronger regional food security by increasing the consumption of local food. One of the measures being expanded is the implementation of the One Day No Rice movement in various government and community activities.

Acting Head of the Papua Food Agency, Sri Utami, said that the use of local food has started to become a habit in official government events. Menus based on sago and tubers are now being served at meetings and gatherings as a concrete form of support for the region's food potential.

"We continue to encourage the use of local food, including through the One Day No Rice movement, so that Papua's food potential can be utilized more fully," Sri Utami said in Jayapura.

She explained that local foods such as papeda, sago, and taro are no longer unfamiliar in government activities. This step is expected to serve as an example that can be followed by the wider community.

According to her, the expansion of the One Day No Rice movement is also being directed toward households, hotels, and restaurants. With increased consumption of local food, demand for rice from outside the region can be reduced, while also creating economic opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses.

"If local products are used consistently, the pressure of demand for rice from outside the region can be reduced. This will have a positive impact on supply stability and the regional economy," she said.

In addition to supporting food security, local foods are considered to have good nutritional value as alternative carbohydrate sources. A more varied pattern of food consumption is also seen as important in building a more diverse diet among the community. ***