
As technology continues to advance rapidly, Indonesia’s agricultural sector is also expanding its capabilities through the modernization of national food security data. The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Statistics Indonesia (BPS), and the National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas) are reportedly working to develop technologies utilizing satellite imagery, big data, and artificial intelligence (AI).
Dr. Bayu Dwi Apri Nugroho, a lecturer at the Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FTP UGM), expressed support for the digital innovations developed to monitor national food conditions. He emphasized that modernizing food security requires accessible data that accurately reflects field conditions.
“These innovations serve as one of the answers to the public’s need for accurate, factual, and real-time data. Today, everything must be based on data that is monitored and captured through imagery,” said Dr. Nugroho on Friday (Oct. 10).
Amid growing concerns about a potential global food crisis, Dr. Nugroho encouraged the development of technological innovations, particularly in monitoring food supply and demand through satellite imagery. Given Indonesia’s vast geographical coverage, he stressed the importance of providing the government with valid and timely information.
“I believe the focus of applying these technologies can begin with priority regions,” he added.
He identified several regions that require real-time monitoring, including Food Production Center Areas (KSPP), such as South Papua, Papua, Central Kalimantan, East Nusa Tenggara, and western regions like South Sumatra and North Sumatra.
From the perspective of agricultural technology, Dr. Nugroho noted that modernization systems could greatly assist farmers and local communities. However, he acknowledged that challenges remain in the process of development.
“One aspect that still needs improvement is the management and delivery of information produced by these systems to the intended recipients,” he explained.
He also pointed out that the education levels and capacities of farmers vary significantly, especially in remote regions. Therefore, the method and tools used to communicate this information remain a crucial focus.
“We need to think about the right ways and methods to ensure the information reaches its target effectively and truly benefits farmers,” said Dr. Nugroho.
In conclusion, Dr. Nugroho emphasized that adopting digital innovation is now a necessity, and the agricultural sector must begin to embrace it. He believes that, amid challenges such as climate change, land conversion, and the need for agricultural regeneration, digital innovation serves as a key factor for resilience.
“The use of digital innovation can significantly contribute to agricultural development and help address challenges in achieving national food self-sufficiency,” he concluded.
Author: Hanifah
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya
Illustration: Freepik