Jakarta – The Food Estate program developed by the government in Merauke, Papua, represents a strategic step in strengthening national food security while simultaneously opening new economic opportunities for the local community. This project not only boosts food production but also creates jobs and fosters economic equality in Eastern Indonesia. By utilizing previously unused lands, the Food Estate in Merauke is demonstrating tangible results for regional development.
Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman emphasized that this program has brought significant benefits, with rice harvests reaching 40,000 tons. “From previously unproductive land that we’ve optimized, it now yields 40,000 tons of harvest. This proves that this program has a real impact on our food security,” he said. Amran also added that the project is not only focused on increasing production but also opening new job opportunities in the agricultural sector for the people of Papua.
Support for the project also comes from Tonny Tesar, a member of Commission XIII of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) from the Nasdem faction, who views the Food Estate as the government’s effort to strengthen Papua’s economy. “We fully support the President’s program to build a national food center in Merauke. What’s important is that this project respects the rights of indigenous people and is conducted with an approach that involves the local community,” he stated. According to him, coordination between the central and regional governments is crucial for the success of the project.
Additionally, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Ribka Haluk emphasized that the Food Estate project brings significant benefits to the people of Papua. “The government always prioritizes the interests of the people in every policy. Therefore, continuous communication is maintained with the residents to ensure this project genuinely provides welfare for all,” she said.
The success of the Food Estate in Papua serves as proof of the government’s commitment to building national food security. With a sustainable approach and involving various stakeholders, the project is expected to continue growing and have a positive impact on Papua’s economy as well as Indonesia as a whole.
