Palm Sugar Tree Cultivation Marks President Prabowo’s First Step Toward National Energy Self-Sufficiency
Jakarta – President Prabowo Subianto’s administration has begun taking concrete steps toward achieving national energy self-sufficiency by promoting the large-scale cultivation of the aren (Arenga pinnata), also known as the “miracle tree.” This native Indonesian species has become a favorite of President Prabowo due to its remarkable potential to support both food and energy security in the country.
Minister of Environment and Forestry, Raja Juli Antoni, stated that President Prabowo has long expressed a deep interest in the aren tree, praising its versatility and sustainability. Almost every part of the tree can be utilized, making it a symbol of natural resource independence.
“President Prabowo has long considered the aren his favorite tree. It’s a miracle tree — every part, from root to tip, can be used,” said Raja Antoni in an official statement.
He further explained that aren plays a critical role in realizing two key pillars of national development: food and energy security. The sap of the tree can be processed into high-quality bioethanol, offering a promising alternative to imported fossil fuels. In addition, other parts of the tree — including fibers, starch, and palm fruit (kolang-kaling) — contribute economic value to the food and industrial sectors.
“Imagine, from one hectare of well-managed aren trees, we can produce up to 24,000 kiloliters of bioethanol. If this program is implemented across one million hectares, Indonesia would no longer need to rely on fuel imports. We could achieve true energy independence,” he emphasized.
Support for the initiative also comes from Willie Smits, Senior Advisor to the Minister and a renowned conservationist and microbiologist. Smits highlighted the aren tree’s advantages over other crops, especially its resilience to extreme climate changes.
“Aren outperforms coconut trees because it yields products with high export value. Just one tree can generate up to two million rupiah from its fiber alone. Its fruit contributes to food security, and most importantly, the tree never dries out — even in drought — because of its deep root system,” Smits explained.
This strategic initiative aligns with President Prabowo’s broader vision to build a self-sufficient, prosperous, and sovereign Indonesia. The cultivation of aren is not just a technical solution, but also a symbolic commitment to local resources and environmental sustainability.
By prioritizing the aren in national forestry and energy policy, President Prabowo is demonstrating a clear commitment to leading Indonesia into a new era: energy self-sufficiency powered by the nation’s own natural wealth.
