November 8, 2024

Indonesia's youth key to achieving national food self-sufficiency, says Deputy Agriculture Minister

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Sudaryono, has highlighted the critical role of young people in advancing the agriculture sector as a foundational move toward achieving food self-sufficiency.

Addressing participants at the National Consolidation of Millennial Farmer Representatives in Semarang, Central Java, Sudaryono spoke to hundreds of young farmers and youth organisations. He stressed that the contribution of youth is essential for introducing modern agricultural technology and sustainable practices aimed at boosting productivity across the sector.

"The agricultural sector needs young people because they are innovative, adaptive, and creative," he stated, adding that their skills in leveraging technology make them vital agents of change. The government, he said, is fully committed to supporting young farmers with the resources and training they need to succeed.

Sudaryono further noted that youth engagement in agriculture should extend beyond the upstream production process. He urged young people to consider downstream activities as well, including the development of derivative products. This approach, he explained, could increase the value of agricultural commodities, and foster new business opportunities, leading to a more sustainable agriculture sector that supports food self-sufficiency.

Achieving national food self-sufficiency is a key goal of the current administration under President Prabowo Subianto. In his inaugural address on October 20, President Subianto expressed optimism that Indonesia would reach food self-sufficiency within the next four to five years, drawing on insights from discussions with agricultural experts.

-      Antara