Prabowo-Gibran Government Strengthens Steps Towards Rice Self-Sufficiency
JAKARTA – The Prabowo Subianto-Gibran Rakabuming Raka government is considered to have a strong strategy in achieving rice self-sufficiency and national food security. Agricultural observer from the Indonesian Political Economy Association (AEPI), Khudori, is optimistic that with the right budget allocation and good resource management, this target can be realized sustainably.
“The government’s focus on increasing rice productivity, support from the Ministry of Agriculture, and optimizing fertilizer and seed subsidies will be the key to the success of rice self-sufficiency. If this policy is implemented consistently, Indonesia can achieve food security in the next few years,” he said.
Khudori also emphasized the importance of utilizing existing agricultural land compared to opening new land that is not necessarily productive. According to him, optimizing the food estate that has been developed will provide faster and more efficient results.
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Public Works (Wamen PU), Diana Kusumastuti, emphasized that the government has prepared various infrastructure programs to support food security, one of which is through dam construction.
“Dam construction is a strategic step in ensuring the availability of water for irrigation of 1.27 million hectares of rice fields. In addition, dams also support energy self-sufficiency with additional electricity of up to 15,627 MW and increase national water security,” he explained.
The government has built 234 dams, with an additional 47 dams in the 2015-2024 period. In addition, there are 14 dams targeted for completion in 2026 and 11 new dams that have begun construction since 2021. With a total of 259 dams, this infrastructure will be an important foundation in supporting food and energy security in Indonesia.
Corporate Secretary of PT. Adhi Karya Tbk (Persero), Rozi Sparta, also emphasized that dam construction not only plays a role as technical infrastructure, but also has broad social and environmental impacts.
“Dams not only support agriculture and daily needs, but also protect against floods and become a source of renewable energy for the community,” he said.
With targeted policies and increasingly strong infrastructure support, optimism for the success of rice self-sufficiency under Prabowo Subianto’s leadership is increasing. The government is expected to continue to strengthen strategies and synergies between ministries to achieve sustainable food security targets.