At 79 years of independence, Indonesia has had a long journey. While some have experienced improvements in their lives, not everyone feels completely free.
Among those still struggling are the farmers. As an agrarian nation, Indonesia has around 40.69 million people working in agriculture.
Dr. Bayu Dwi Apri Nugroho, an expert in agriculture, agrometeorology, environmental science, and climate change, noted that this number is substantial, making agriculture a predominant sector. However, he pointed out that many farmers still face ongoing challenges and remain trapped in poverty.
Small-scale and labor farmers, in particular, find it difficult to break free from the cycle of poverty. Many of them work just to survive.
“In a country where agriculture is predominant, farmers should receive special attention from the government, at the very least in terms of recognition and favorable facilities,” he said at the UGM Faculty of Agricultural Technology on Saturday (Aug. 17).
Dr. Nugroho emphasized that these farmers’ hard work and efforts have enabled Indonesia to make significant strides in agriculture, with notable achievements in 1984 and again in 2022.
During these years, the success in boosting rice production led to rice self-sufficiency and recognition from the FAO.
“These achievements are a testament to the dedication of Indonesian farmers,” he added.
Despite their contributions, a significant challenge remains for the nation: raising the status of farmers as food heroes and lifting them out of poverty.
Although the government has introduced numerous programs to improve farmers’ welfare, these initiatives have not entirely eradicated poverty among farmers.
Programs have included agricultural intensification efforts such as using superior seeds, improving irrigation, applying fertilizer, and providing extensive counseling and support to farmer groups.
Land expansion programs have also been implemented, such as developing new rice fields and transforming idle lands into productive farmland.
“The ultimate goal is to enhance farmers’ welfare. However, the complexity of agricultural issues and regional differences have made it challenging to achieve significant improvements,” Dr. Nugroho explained.
He mentioned that these problems could be minimized and managed with clear and realistic government programs. As Indonesia approaches a national leadership change in 2024, there is hope for new opportunities and initiatives for the agricultural sector.
Dr. Nugroho expressed his hope for realistic programs from the new government that could effectively improve farmers’ welfare. This could involve refining current programs or introducing new initiatives to support farmers genuinely.
Although immediate results are unlikely, there should be steps toward improving farmers’ well-being. This won’t be easy, but introducing practical programs supporting farmers is crucial.
“Achieving this requires collaboration and synergy from all sectors. Indonesia’s goal of becoming a global food producer can only be realized if the welfare of farmers is secured. On the 79th anniversary of Indonesia’s independence, we hope these food heroes can truly experience the freedom they deserve,” he concluded.
Author: Agung Nugroho
Photo: Kompas Regional
Post-editor: Afif