GOMA: In an ambitious effort to achieve food self-sufficiency within three years, Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman has pledged to increase farmers’ incomes to Rp10 million (approximately $640) per month – five times the current average wage for agricultural labourers.
Sulaiman made this announcement after distributing assistance to farmers at the Pattalassang Youth Field in Gowa, South Sulawesi.
He highlighted the government’s preparation of a modern agricultural cluster program, which will provide seeds, fertilisers, and advanced farming equipment such as tractors, combine harvesters, drones, and other digital production tools.
“We have travelled across Indonesia for 11 months to ensure our food security. I believe that from Gowa, Makassar, we can achieve self-sufficiency and become a global food hub within three years,” he said.
In Gowa, the government plans to develop a 500-hectare modern agricultural cluster that will showcase the latest farming technologies, including rice planters and combine harvesters.
This project will provide support with superior seeds for corn and rice, fertilizers, and high-tech equipment valued at Rp65.4 billion, which includes 10 combine harvesters, 25 pumps, and 20 hand tractors.
The minister also set a target for rice production in South Sulawesi to reach 32 million tons by 2025, an increase from the previously estimated 30 million tons in 2024, following modernisation efforts.
The minister emphasized the importance of involving the millennial generation in modern farming practices, utilizing high-tech equipment like harvesters and tractors.
His goal is to attract 50,000 young Indonesians to the agricultural sector, enabling them to earn a monthly income of Rp 10 million each. He expressed optimism that a rapid agricultural revolution could be achieved across the country.
“The key is to engage the large number of young people in modern agriculture, ensuring a minimum income of Rp10 million per person, targeting 50,000 youths to work in the fields,” he said.
According to data from the Central Statistics Agency in February 2024, the average wage for agricultural labourers is approximately Rp2.1 million per month, significantly lower than the national average of Rp3.04 million for labourers and workers.
