BPS West Sulawesi Records Decrease in Poverty Rate in September 2024

Mamuju, January 15, 2025 – The Central Statistics Agency (BPS) of West Sulawesi Province delivered good news regarding the socio-economic conditions of the people in this area. Based on the results of the National Socio-Economic Survey (Susenas) conducted in September 2024, BPS recorded a decrease in the poverty rate in West Sulawesi.

The Head of BPS West Sulawesi Province, Tina Wahyufitri, in her press release today revealed that the percentage of poor people in West Sulawesi in September 2024 was 10.71 percent. This figure shows a decrease of 0.5 percentage points compared to March 2024.

"This decrease in the poverty rate is the result of various efforts that have been made by the government and all relevant stakeholders in improving people's welfare," said Tina.

Poverty Decrease Occurs in Urban and Rural Areas

Furthermore, BPS also recorded a decrease in the poverty rate in both urban and rural areas. In urban areas, the percentage of poor people decreased from 9.29 percent in March 2024 to 8.33 percent in September 2024. Meanwhile, in rural areas, the percentage of poor people also decreased from 11.7 percent to 11.32 percent.

Factors Contributing to the Decrease in Poverty

According to BPS, the decline in poverty rates was influenced by several factors, including increased community income, improved infrastructure, and targeted government programs. In addition, the stability of food prices also contributed to the decline in poverty rates.

Dominance of Food Components in the Poverty Line

Despite the decline, BPS also highlighted that the food component is still the dominant factor in the poverty line in West Sulawesi. In September 2024, the contribution of the food poverty line to the overall poverty line reached 77.55 percent. This shows that efforts to improve people's welfare need to continue to focus on increasing access and affordability of food.

Tina hopes that this trend of declining poverty rates can continue. To achieve this goal, BPS recommends that the government and all stakeholders continue to synergize in implementing various programs and policies aimed at improving the welfare of the community, especially poor groups.