By: Ricky Rinaldi
Indonesia is making history in the agricultural sector. The government’s modernization efforts have not only accelerated the achievement of food self-sufficiency but also become a major driver of national economic growth. Data, facts, and statements from leaders demonstrate that this policy is not just a promise, but a tangible achievement felt by farmers and the wider community.
The government under President Prabowo Subianto has made agriculture one of its strategic development priorities. The Ministry of Agriculture has moved swiftly to implement modernization policies that cover all sectors: the provision of high-quality fertilizers and seeds, mechanization through agricultural machinery (alsintan), digital distribution, and strengthening national food reserves. All of these measures have yielded tangible results, as evidenced by the national rice surplus and improved farmer welfare.
In his speech, Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman expressed full optimism about Indonesia’s success in achieving food self-sufficiency. He emphasized that rice production projections show a surplus of around 4.86 million tons, while rice reserves at the National Logistics Agency (Bulog) have reached 4.2 million tons, an all-time high. This marks a significant turning point: Indonesia can now truly break free from its dependence on imports.
Furthermore, Amran stated that farmer welfare has also improved, as reflected in the national Farmer Exchange Rate (NTP), which reached 122 percent. This figure far exceeds the 110 percent target, demonstrating that government policies not only increase production but also provide real economic benefits to farmers. He believes this achievement demonstrates the government’s presence among farmers, taking concrete steps, not just rhetoric.
At the regional level, the commitment to agricultural modernization is also increasingly evident. The Regent of Sidenreng Rappang, Syaharuddin Alrif, emphasized that modernization is key to improving the welfare of farmers in his region. Through the implementation of the IP-300 intensification system, farmers can now harvest up to three times a year, up from the previous pattern of two. This has resulted in a significant increase in productivity and income within a short period.
Syaharuddin also emphasized the importance of supporting modern agricultural machinery, such as combine harvesters. These harvesting machines can improve harvest efficiency, reduce labor costs, and increase yields. The availability of agricultural machinery, facilitated through collaboration between local governments and the private sector, provides farmers with broader access to previously unaffordable technology. He believes that collaboration between the government and the business sector paves the way for agricultural modernization at the local level, with direct benefits for communities.
The combined statements from the Minister of Agriculture and the Regent of Sidrap demonstrate a consistent government policy direction. At the central level, food self-sufficiency has been designated a national strategic agenda with a significant impact on national independence. At the regional level, modernization is concretely realized through the implementation of technology and innovation in the field. The two complement each other, emphasizing that agricultural modernization is a collective movement designed to ensure tangible results for the nation.
From a macro perspective, the success of the agricultural sector has had a significant impact on the national economy. The Central Statistics Agency (BPS) recorded that agriculture’s contribution to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) reached over 13 percent, with double-digit growth. This figure underscores agriculture’s vital role as a key economic driver, especially amidst global uncertainty. While many countries face food inflation, Indonesia appears more confident with abundant food reserves.
The positive impacts of modernization are also felt at the micro level. Farmers can now work more efficiently, reduce reliance on manual labor, and achieve better yields. With guaranteed grain prices and increasingly open access to technology, farmers’ incomes have increased. This increased purchasing power, in turn, strengthens the rural economy, which serves as the basis for national food production.
Of course, the journey to self-sufficiency is not without challenges. Climate change and limited land availability remain serious threats. However, the government has anticipated this by preparing climate adaptation programs, equitable technology distribution, and encouraging the development of young farmers using digital technology. Thus, modernization is not just a short-term solution, but a long-term strategy to ensure Indonesia’s food self-sufficiency.
The regeneration of young farmers is also a particular concern. Modernization has made agriculture increasingly attractive to millennials and Gen Z. The presence of agricultural applications, the use of big data, and the use of advanced agricultural machinery have made agriculture a promising modern sector. The government is encouraging young people to get involved directly, ensuring that the agricultural sector is not only strong today but also sustainable in the future.
Amran and Syaharuddin’s statements affirmed the government’s seriousness in promoting food self-sufficiency through concrete measures. Amran emphasized national-scale advantages: a rice surplus, abundant Bulog stocks, and an increasing NTP (National Food Price Index). Meanwhile, Syaharuddin demonstrated how regional modernization significantly increased farmer productivity and income. These two perspectives reinforce each other, demonstrating that the government’s strategy is working effectively from the central to the regional levels.
The success of agricultural modernization should be a source of pride for the entire nation. Indonesia is now closer to achieving its long-desired food self-sufficiency. Improved farmer welfare and agriculture’s contribution to the national economy are proof that government policies are on the right track. With continued strengthening of synergies, it’s possible that Indonesia will become a global food power.
Agricultural modernization is the answer to the challenges of our time. Under the current government’s leadership, significant strides toward food self-sufficiency have been achieved. This achievement not only provides a sense of security for the people but also lays a strong foundation for sustainable economic growth. Indonesia is on the path to independence, and modern agriculture is its primary foundation.
*)Strategic Issues Observer
