Indonesia's Rice Fields Conversion Threatens Food Security

Massive Land Use Changes Detected

Indonesia has experienced significant loss of agricultural land between 2019 and 2025, with 554,000 hectares of rice fields converted to industrial and residential use. This substantial change in land utilization has raised concerns about the country's ability to maintain food security.

Government Response and Policy Measures

Minister Nusron Wahid of ATR/BPN emphasized that this conversion threatens national food security and stressed the importance of proper spatial planning. The government is focusing on implementing Regional Spatial Plans (RTRW) that specifically include Sustainable Food and Agricultural Land (LP2B), Standard Rice Fields (LBS), and Protected Rice Fields (LSD) designations.

Implementation Challenges

The minister has urged regional leaders to incorporate these protected land categories into their RTRW to prevent further conversion. The goal is to create a legal framework that safeguards agricultural land for future generations while balancing development needs.

Future Implications

This policy initiative represents a critical step in addressing Indonesia's food security challenges. By protecting agricultural land through comprehensive spatial planning, the government aims to maintain rice production levels and ensure long-term food sustainability.