West Sulawesi Population Expenditure Inequality Decreases in March 2024

Mamuju, 1 July 2024 – The West Sulawesi Province Central Statistics Agency (BPS) released the latest data regarding the level of inequality in population expenditure in March 2024. The Gini Ratio, an indicator used to measure inequality, shows a decrease of 0.003 points compared to March 2023 to 0.354.

"The decline in the Gini Ratio indicates an improvement in income distribution in West Sulawesi," said Head of BPS West Sulawesi Province, Tina Wahyufitri, in an official release attended by the Acting Governor of West Sulawesi, Bahtiar Baharuddin.

Although there has been overall improvement, there are differences in trends in urban and rural areas. The Gini Ratio in urban areas increased by 0.004 points to 0.456, while in rural areas it decreased by 0.005 points to 0.303.

"These differences in trends need to be of concern to regional governments to formulate appropriate policies to overcome inequality in each region," added Tina.

Expenditure distribution data shows that the bottom 40 percent of the population controls 19.38 percent of total expenditure, which indicates a low level of inequality. However, in urban areas, the proportion of this group's expenditure is only 15.36 percent, indicating a moderate level of inequality.

The Acting Governor of West Sulawesi, Bahtiar Baharuddin, responded positively to this data and expressed the regional government's commitment to continuing to strive to reduce inequality in West Sulawesi.

"We will continue to work together with BPS and various related parties to ensure inclusive and sustainable development policies," said Bahtiar.

West Sulawesi Province BPS will continue to monitor developments in inequality in population expenditure and provide the latest information to the public as a basis for policy making.