Food security key to economic transformation: deputy minister

Food security is the central pillar of President Prabowo Subianto’s economic transformation agenda, according to Deputy Agriculture Minister Sudaryono. Speaking in Jakarta on June 12, Sudaryono stated the sector is critical for national sovereignty, stability, and welfare, driving efforts to increase agricultural output and modernize farming infrastructure.

Sudaryono delivered these remarks during the opening of the National Working Meeting of the Indonesia Raya Christian Movement (GEKIRA). A statement released Saturday detailed how the food sector’s strategic position stems from its direct impact on Indonesian society and the economy.

“Food security is not only about producing rice or agricultural commodities. It is about national sovereignty,” Sudaryono said.

How is Indonesia strengthening food security?

The government is implementing several specific measures to boost the sector. According to Sudaryono, these include raising overall agricultural output and optimizing the use of available land.

Infrastructure and technology are also priorities. The administration is focusing on modernizing farming practices and expanding irrigation systems to support growth.

Did You Know? Indonesia’s food security is currently supported by record rice stocks totaling 5.3 million tons.

Why is the government reforming agricultural administration?

Sudaryono stated that President Prabowo is committed to prioritizing public interests through systemic reforms. The government aims to stop state losses caused by corruption, budget irregularities, transfer pricing, and over-invoicing.

Sudaryono acknowledged that closing loopholes for malpractice may affect certain parties. He argued these changes are necessary to create a cleaner government that serves the public more effectively.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the government’s focus on “national sovereignty” suggests a shift toward reducing import dependencies. The tension between administrative cleanup and “affected parties” indicates that the transition to a transparent system could face internal resistance from established interests.

What happens next for national development?

The government may rely on civic organizations to bridge the gap between policy and public perception. Sudaryono urged GEKIRA members to communicate the objectives of current programs so the public understands the direction of development.

The Galana Kulalu Food Security Project is operational, with further expansion planned.

GEKIRA Chairman Nikson Silalahi said the 2026 National Working Meeting is a forum to align organization programs with the national agenda. This alignment could lead to more coordinated efforts in promoting the administration’s food security goals.

Additionally, the government may expand its food aid initiatives, as evidenced by current plans to distribute eggs through such programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary goal of the food security agenda?
It serves as the cornerstone of President Prabowo Subianto’s economic transformation to ensure national sovereignty, stability, and welfare.

What specific farming improvements are being made?
The government is raising agricultural output, optimizing land use, modernizing farming, and expanding irrigation infrastructure.

What financial malpractices is the government targeting?
The administration is pursuing reforms to curb corruption, budget irregularities, over-invoicing, and transfer pricing practices.

How do you think national food sovereignty impacts a country’s economic stability?