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"Back then, I used to buy rice for around 2,000 rupiah per kilogram. Now, I have to pay at least 3,000 rupiah," they say. For students living in dormitories or on tight budgets, such increases mean stricter financial management. Many find themselves buying smaller portions or shopping more carefully, trying to stretch their limited income.
One individual mentions that the rising food prices have led them to work additional hours or seek side jobs. "I sometimes work all day and only sleep for a couple of hours," they share. Despite this, they remain optimistic, hoping that prices of staple goods like rice and vegetables will decrease so they can better manage their expenses.