Farmers have always had a special place in President Prabowo Subianto’s heart, as mentioned by Dedek Prayudi, Senior Expert at the Presidential Communication Office (PCO). This deep connection can be attributed to two pivotal moments in Prabowo’s life. The first moment was during his time as an active-duty military officer, where he received significant assistance from local communities and farmers. The second moment was when he led the Indonesian Farmers Harmony Association (HKTI).
During the grand corn harvest for the Food Security Program in Jenggalu Village, Seluma Regency, Bengkulu Province, Uki emphasized the importance of the program, especially in the current global context that necessitates Indonesia to reduce its dependence on foreign food supplies. With the support of the government through subsidized fertilizers, pesticides, and agricultural machinery, the cultivated area and yields are expected to increase, motivating farmers along the way.
Uki urged the village head of Jenggalu to expedite administrative processes so that farmers can access subsidized fertilizer effectively. As of August, only 47 percent of the subsidized fertilizer allocation has been utilized, highlighting the importance of not wasting the government-provided facilities. The goal is to enhance production capacity and ensure the happiness of farmers.
Kelik Budianan, Head of the Food Data and Information Center at the National Food Agency (Pusdatin Bapanas), expressed support for President Prabowo’s initiative, mentioning the coordination with the State Logistics Agency (Bulog) to absorb farmers’ corn harvests. Efforts are being made to integrate the supply chains of farmers and livestock breeders to ensure favorable prices for crops, feed, and livestock.
In attendance were various officials and representatives, including Sukaraja District Head Ramlan Effendi, Jenggalu Village Head Johni Midarling, Maret Samuel Sueken from the National Development Policy Assistance Network (JPKP), as well as representatives from Pupuk Indonesia and the local community of Jenggalu.
