Indonesia Expands Rice Field Development in Papua

Ministry of Agriculture Accelerates 'Cetak Sawah' Program

The Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture is intensifying its efforts to develop rice fields in the Papua region through its 'cetak sawah' (rice field development) program. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance food security and reduce the region's reliance on external food supplies.

Regional Focus and Government Collaboration

The program will focus on several key regions in Papua, including Papua Barat, Papua Barat Daya, and Papua Pegunungan. According to Vice Minister of Agriculture Sudaryono, the ministry has been working closely with Bupati (regents) from various counties in Papua to identify suitable areas for rice cultivation. The collaborative effort was highlighted during a recent meeting at the Coordinating Ministry for Food Affairs in Jakarta, where representatives from across Papua gathered to discuss the initiative.

Significance for Papua's Food Security

The 'cetak sawah' program in Papua is crucial for improving the region's food security. By developing local rice fields, the government aims to decrease Papua's dependence on food imports from other regions. This not only supports the local economy but also helps stabilize food prices and availability in Papua.

Implementation and Future Prospects

The Ministry of Agriculture's efforts to expand rice field development in Papua demonstrate a commitment to addressing food security challenges in the region. As the program progresses, it is expected to contribute significantly to Papua's self-sufficiency in rice production and overall food resilience.