Papua Pegunungan to become new food production hub with 2,000-hectare rice field expansion

The Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture is fast-tracking a strategic initiative to establish 2,000 hectares of new rice fields in Papua Pegunungan by 2026. This ambitious program is designed to bolster food security in Indonesia's eastern regions and contribute to the nation's goal of achieving food self-sufficiency.

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I see the extraordinary spirit of the mothers and brothers in managing their fields. The paddy field creation program programmed by the government right now is actually from the community for the community.

Following the successful development of 90 hectares of paddy fields in the region, the ministry plans to cultivate an additional 1,910 hectares this year. Director General of Agricultural Land and Irrigation, Hermanto, emphasized that the expansion is a crucial step in developing new food production centers and improving the livelihoods of local communities. He noted the strong enthusiasm of the local people in managing their farms, stating the program is "from the community for the community."

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There is no land grabbing or expropriation of customary rights. Everything we do has been agreed upon by traditional leaders, indigenous communities, and all farmers.

The project's implementation, marked by the first rice planting in Kampung Perabaga, Distrik Piramid, Kabupaten Jayawijaya, prioritizes community involvement and respects customary land rights. Hermanto assured that all activities are agreed upon with traditional leaders, indigenous communities, and farmers, ensuring no land rights are violated. The ministry is also providing support through superior rice seeds, dolomite fertilizer, agricultural machinery, and fuel subsidies to enhance productivity.

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Now, only 90 hectares have been completed. This year, we will continue creating paddy fields in Papua Pegunungan covering 1,910 hectares. So, 90 plus 1,910, making 2,000 hectares, we will complete this in 2026.

Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman views the development of new agricultural land in Papua as integral to realizing nationwide food self-sufficiency. He envisions a future where all islands can produce their own food, thereby reducing inter-island transportation needs and offering a permanent solution to inflation.

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Our dream is for all islands in Indonesia to be food self-sufficient. That way, there is no need for inter-island food transportation. This is a permanent solution to overcome inflation problems.