Jakarta – Food and energy self-sufficiency has again become a major concern in the national development agenda. An economist from the Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (INDEF), Muhammad Rizal Taufikurahman, emphasized that efforts to achieve self-sufficiency are an inevitability that cannot be postponed for the Indonesian nation.
“Food and energy self-sufficiency reflects a country’s food defense, including energy. Its urgency is very important. With the great potential it has, self-sufficiency is not only possible to achieve, but also a necessity,” explained Rizal.
According to him, the meaning of self-sufficiency is not only limited to fulfilling domestic needs, but also the ability to export excess production.
“Self-sufficiency means that the people’s food and energy needs are met, even to the point of being able to be exported. In economic logic, this will drive national economic growth,” he said.
The agricultural and energy sectors have so far made a major contribution to Indonesia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Moreover, this sector has also been proven to absorb a large number of workers.
“The agricultural sector once absorbed up to 45 million workers. This shows how strategic the sector is in supporting national economic stability,” added Rizal.
He also highlighted the commitment of President Prabowo Subianto, who he said has serious concern for the fate of farmers and national agricultural development. “President Prabowo understands very well, he is very concerned about farmers and agriculture. His hope is of course that all people can access food properly and evenly,” he said.
Although the government’s efforts have shown a clear direction through various policies, roadmaps, and strategies, Rizal assessed that the biggest challenge lies in the consistency of implementation.
“The success of this program depends on consistent implementation, strict supervision, and political courage to run it. This is not an easy job, but it is very possible if done in an integrated manner,” he said.
He also emphasized the importance of community participation and cross-sector synergy. “We need support from all elements of government, the private sector, academics, and the community so that self-sufficiency is not just a discourse, but a real achievement,” said Rizal.
With strong political commitment and full support from all parties, food and energy self-sufficiency is believed to bring Indonesia towards true economic independence. []
