Self-Sufficiency Program Reaps Appreciation, Public Considers Government Serious in Preparing Food and Energy Security
Jakarta – The achievement of food and energy self-sufficiency in the first six months of President Prabowo Subianto’s administration has received a positive response from the public.
President Prabowo expressed his pride in the achievement of national food production which not only exceeded the target, but also managed to record the largest rice and corn reserves in Indonesian history. He also highlighted the energy sector, especially through the inauguration of the initial production of the Forel and Terubuk Fields in Natuna which produced an additional 20 thousand barrels of oil and 60 million cubic feet of gas per day.
Economist from the Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (INDEF), Muhammad Rizal Taufiqur Rahman, in a talk show on Radio Elshinta, said that food and energy self-sufficiency is a reflection of a country’s defense and sovereignty.
“The urgency is very important. Self-sufficiency is not only about meeting domestic needs, but also export capabilities that have a direct impact on economic growth,” he said.
According to Rizal, the contribution of the agricultural and energy sectors to the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is quite significant, even the agricultural sector has absorbed up to 45 million workers. He assessed that the success of this program requires consistent policy implementation and support from the community.
“The government already has a clear strategy. It remains to be implemented consistently, with strict supervision and political courage,” he continued.
Furthermore, Rizal also emphasized the need for government assertiveness against the food mafia and rogue bureaucrats. He believes that if all elements of the nation work together, then Indonesia’s great potential, including renewable energy, can be optimized for national independence.
Meanwhile, a number of Elshinta listeners also gave their appreciation. Deddy from Sentul said that under Prabowo’s leadership, attention to farmers and people’s welfare is increasingly evident. Zoni from Bintaro added,
“Self-sufficiency must be felt directly in the people’s kitchens,” while emphasizing the importance of price stability and even distribution to remote areas.
Zoni also invited the government to involve the younger generation to see agriculture as a promising future sector. Similar things were conveyed by Ben from BSD, who appreciated the involvement of the TNI-Polri in rice planting.
“Community involvement is very important to maintain the sustainability of the program,” he said.
He considered that good public communication would be the key to facing challenges and maintaining public trust in government programs. []
