By: Rahmat Hidayat)*
Synergy between various parties, especially with the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) group, plays an important role in realizing sustainable national food security. MSMEs, which are an integral part of the Indonesian economy, have great potential to make a significant contribution to the provision of food that not only meets domestic needs but also supports long-term food security in the country. With the right support, this MSME group can become a main pillar in creating a more stable and independent food system.
In Indonesia, most MSMEs operate in the food sector, from farmers, fishermen, to processed food producers. These sectors are very close to the basic needs of the community, namely food. With a large number and spread throughout the region, MSMEs have the capacity to increase local food production and create a more efficient distribution system. Synergy between the government, the business world, and MSME groups is key to optimizing this potential. The government, for example, through policies that support MSME empowerment and market access, can strengthen the competitiveness of local food products produced by MSME groups.
Minister of SMEs, Maman Abdurrahman emphasized the commitment of the Ministry of SMEs in supporting food security through financing the provision of equipment for the sustainability of increasing the business of SME entrepreneurs. A number of strategic steps will be taken to ensure that SMEs can contribute optimally in supporting national food security. Currently, his party is preparing a Ministerial Regulation (Permen) to allocate IDR 20 trillion for People’s Business Credit (KUR) specifically for production equipment. This program aims to help farmers, livestock breeders, and SME entrepreneurs in the fisheries sector in obtaining business equipment with a ceiling of up to IDR 2 billion.
In the context of food security, MSMEs also have an important role in reducing food insecurity in remote areas and areas affected by disasters. Synergy between the government and MSMEs in providing easily accessible and affordable food products is crucial in maintaining the sustainability of food supplies, especially in areas that have difficulty obtaining food supplies from outside. In addition, MSMEs engaged in local agriculture and fisheries can help maintain food diversity in Indonesia, while increasing the income of farmers and fishermen who are members of the MSME group.
One example of the success of this synergy is the partnership program between local farmers and large companies operating in the food sector. In this case, large companies act as partners in terms of marketing, training, and funding for farmers. On the other hand, farmers who are members of the MSME group get better access to wider markets, technology, and easier financing. This of course increases the efficiency and productivity of the local food sector, which has a direct impact on increasing national food security.
Meanwhile, Head of Food Consumption and Diversification Division, West Sumatra Provincial Food Service, Devi Erma Yeni said that MSMEs have a strategic role in strengthening national food security. As economic actors spread across various regions, MSMEs are able to support food production, processing, and distribution to remote areas of the country. By focusing on local products, MSMEs help ensure the availability of diverse food in the community. MSMEs in the food sector often utilize local raw materials, such as agricultural, livestock, or fishery products.
In addition, in facing global challenges related to climate change and international food price fluctuations, strong synergy between MSMEs, the government, and the private sector is needed to create a more resilient food system. Innovation in environmentally friendly agricultural and food processing techniques and the application of efficient technology in food distribution and storage are important in maintaining the stability of food supplies throughout Indonesia. In this case, the role of MSMEs is crucial, because they can be pioneers in adopting appropriate technology that is in accordance with local conditions and local culture.
Equally important, training and empowerment programs organized by the government and private institutions for MSME groups in the food sector can improve their capacity in terms of product quality and business management. With increased skills and knowledge, MSMEs in the food sector are able to produce products that not only meet health and food safety standards, but are also competitive in the global market. This will of course have a positive impact on strengthening national food security, which in turn also contributes to the Indonesian economy as a whole.
In order to accelerate the realization of national food security, this synergy must continue to be maintained and strengthened. All parties, both government, private sector, and MSME groups, must unite in an effort to create an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient food system. With the right support, MSMEs in the food sector have tremendous potential to become a major force in realizing food security that not only covers aspects of food availability, but also includes diversity, quality, and even distribution of food throughout Indonesia.
)* The author is an economic observer
