President Prabowo Subianto has always had a deep connection with farmers, as revealed by Dedek Prayudi from the Presidential Communication Office. This special bond can be traced back to two significant moments in Prabowo’s life. During his time as a military officer, he received assistance from local communities and farmers, and later on, he led the Indonesian Farmers Harmony Association (HKTI).
The importance of the food security program was highlighted during the grand corn harvest event in Jenggalu Village, Seluma Regency, Bengkulu Province, led by President Prabowo and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka. This program is crucial, especially with the current global situation requiring Indonesia to reduce its dependence on foreign food supplies to avoid skyrocketing global food prices if major food-producing countries like India, Brazil, and China were to cease exports.
The harvest yielded around 10 tons of corn from 1.5 hectares of land, showcasing the potential with government support in the form of subsidized fertilizers, pesticides, and agricultural machinery. Uki emphasized the need for continued support to motivate farmers to increase cultivation areas and yields. He urged village officials to expedite administrative processes so farmers can access subsidized fertilizers, emphasizing the importance of utilizing government facilities efficiently.
Kelik Budianan from the National Food Agency also expressed support for President Prabowo’s initiative, working with the State Logistics Agency to purchase farmers’ corn harvests. Efforts are underway to integrate the supply chains of farmers and livestock breeders to ensure favorable prices for crops, feed, and livestock. This collaboration was acknowledged by officials and representatives present at the event, all working towards enhancing food security and farmers’ well-being in Indonesia.
