Bank Mandiri Empowers Farmers in Kebumen, Achieves Record Rice Productivity

Comprehensive Farming Program

Bank Mandiri's Farmer Entrepreneurship Program in Kebumen has successfully boosted rice productivity to 8.9 tons per hectare, significantly surpassing the national average of 6.2 tons per hectare in Java. This achievement is the result of a comprehensive farming guidance program that covers all stages of rice cultivation, from pre-planting to harvesting. The program, conducted in collaboration with Universitas Gadjah Mada through PT Karya Utama Gama (KUGAMA), began in July 2025 and incorporates modern agricultural practices.

Innovative Agricultural Practices

The program introduced several innovative farming techniques, including the use of Gagamora 7 superior rice varieties, application of biochar, and implementation of the Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) method for water efficiency. Additionally, the program incorporated integrated pest control using biological agents. These modern practices have not only increased productivity but also enhanced the quality of the rice produced.

Economic Impact

The success of the program has had a significant economic impact on the farmers in Kebumen. The higher productivity and improved quality of rice have led to higher selling prices, resulting in increased income for the farmers. This initiative has demonstrated the potential for collaborative efforts between banking institutions, academic institutions, and local governments to drive agricultural development and improve farmers' welfare.

Strategic Alignment

This program aligns with Bank Mandiri's strategic focus on supporting national development and enhancing food security. It also contributes to the government's vision of achieving sustainable development and economic independence. By empowering farmers with modern agricultural practices and improving their productivity, Bank Mandiri is playing a crucial role in strengthening Indonesia's agricultural sector.

Future Plans

Bank Mandiri plans to expand this successful model to other regions in Indonesia, further contributing to the country's food security and agricultural development. The bank's commitment to supporting productive sectors and enhancing farmers' capabilities is expected to have a lasting impact on the agricultural landscape of Indonesia.