Indonesian farmers begin cultivating newly developed paddy fields

The 'Cetak Sawah Rakyat' (CSR) program has officially begun its cultivation phase in Ringin Sari Village, Banjar Margo District, Tulang Bawang Regency. Commander of Korem 043/Gatam, Brig. Gen. TNI Sumarlin Marzuki, announced that the newly developed paddy fields are now entering the initial rice planting stage, a crucial step aimed at enhancing national food production and improving the welfare of local farmers.

Brig. Gen. Sumarlin Marzuki stated that the handover of the CSR land marks the commencement of tangible work, which must be followed through with diligent planting, care, and harvesting. "We are not just looking at the land, but we are looking at the future. From this land, we expect rice, income, welfare, and new hope for the farmers' families to grow," he remarked. He underscored the strategic importance of the agricultural sector, recognizing food as a fundamental necessity for society. Farmers, he noted, not only provide for their families but also sustain the community and bolster national food security.

The CSR program in Lampung Province has developed a total of 1,459.5 hectares of paddy fields, distributed across three regencies. Tulang Bawang accounts for 276 hectares, Mesuji for 371 hectares, and Lampung Timur for 812 hectares. Brig. Gen. Sumarlin urged all involved parties to ensure that these newly developed lands are not left idle or neglected. Any challenges encountered in land management should be promptly addressed through coordinated efforts to find swift and effective solutions.

He further emphasized the need for continuous support for the farmers. "To the Kodim ranks, ensure that assistance to farmers does not stop at the initial planting. TNI personnel must be present continuously among the farmers, listening to various challenges, helping to find solutions, and overseeing the agricultural process from planting to harvest," he requested. Brig. Gen. Sumarlin believes Tulang Bawang Regency holds significant potential to contribute to food security in Lampung Province, stressing that this potential must be translated into actual production that directly benefits farmers' livelihoods. "Potential is not enough. Potential must become production, and production must become welfare," he concluded.