President Prabowo Subianto has always shown a deep connection to farmers, as stated by Dedek Prayudi from the Presidential Communication Office (PCO). This bond can be traced back to Prabowo’s time as a military officer, where he received significant help from local communities and farmers. Furthermore, his leadership in the Indonesian Farmers Harmony Association (HKTI) further solidified this connection. Recently, at the grand corn harvest event in Jenggalu Village, President Prabowo and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka emphasized the importance of the Food Security Program.
In light of the current global situation, where Indonesia needs to reduce its reliance on foreign food supplies, the food security program plays a crucial role. Countries like India, Brazil, and China are major food producers, and any disruptions in their exports can lead to global food price surges that will impact Indonesia. The government’s support in providing subsidized fertilizers, pesticides, and agricultural machinery has already shown positive results, with the recent corn harvest yielding 10 tons from 1.5 hectares.
Urging the village head to expedite administrative requirements for farmers to access subsidized fertilizers, Uki emphasized the need to not waste the government-provided facilities. As only 47 percent of the subsidized fertilizer allocation has been utilized, there is room for improvement to increase production capacity and motivate farmers. The National Food Agency (Pusdatin Bapanas), along with the State Logistics Agency (Bulog), is supporting President Prabowo’s initiative by coordinating the absorption of farmers’ corn harvests.
Kelik Budianan, Head of the Food Data and Information Center at Pusdatin Bapanas, highlighted the efforts to integrate the supply chains of farmers and livestock breeders. By ensuring good prices for crops, feed costs, and livestock prices will also be favorable. This initiative has garnered support from various stakeholders, including representatives from Pupuk Indonesia, the National Development Policy Assistance Network (JPKP), and local village officials. With a collective effort to enhance food security and support farmers, President Prabowo’s commitment to the agriculture sector remains strong.
