Viral Video of Rice Being Trampled, Bulog Papua Provides Clarification

JAYAPURA, KOMPAS.com - A video showing several people stepping on Bulog rice has gone viral on social media.

In the 19-second clip, several individuals suspected to be rice-handling workers are seen listening to music and dancing while stepping on Bulog rice. Some of the workers appear to be shirtless.

The viral video drew sharp criticism from netizens, as the rice that is normally consumed by the public is being trampled.

The Regional Head of Perum Bulog Papua Regional Office, Ahmad Mustari, spoke out regarding the video showing workers stepping on rice, which has spread widely on social media.

Ahmad regretted the act and considered the workers' behavior unethical, especially since it was done without wearing shirts.

"Regarding the workers playing around and stepping on rice, this is very regrettable. It is unethical, especially without shirts," Ahmad told reporters on Monday (21/9/2026).

However, Ahmad emphasized that the incident did not occur at the Bulog Papua regional warehouse. It took place aboard the cargo ship KM Sanei during the rice unloading process.

"I want to clarify that the incident did not happen at the Bulog Papua regional warehouse. It occurred onboard the cargo ship KM Sanei during the rice unloading process," he explained.

Ahmad elaborated that the rice shown in the video is part of the National Movement Rice (Movnas) from Jakarta, with a total volume of about 2,900 tons.

At the time of the incident, the unloading process was entering its final day. Some rice remained inside the ship, which was then categorized as sweeping rice.

"This leftover rice is categorized as sweeping rice, meaning it comes from torn sacks during transportation. We at Bulog strictly enforce regulations regarding this status, as all sweeping rice is prohibited from entering the warehouse," Ahmad said.

According to him, all rice entering Bulog's official warehouses must be ensured to be in consumable condition and comply with applicable standards.

Ahmad stated that damaged or dirty sweeping rice will not be accepted into Bulog warehouses.

"Handling of leftover or sweeping rice is entirely the responsibility of the Loading and Unloading Labor Force (TKBM) for sorting and further processing," he added.

Ahmad also explained that loading and unloading operations at the port are the responsibility of PT Pelindo Jayapura.

"PT Pelindo is fully responsible for loading and unloading activities at the port, which are overall overseen by Pelindo Jayapura as the official operator," he said.

Regarding the workers' actions captured in the video, Bulog Papua Regional Office will coordinate immediately with PT Pelindo Jayapura's management.

The meeting will be held to evaluate field operations and ensure that the unloading and rice handling processes comply with safety, sanitation, and applicable regulations.