Indonesian President Prabowo’s quest for food security faces challenges

National Food Security Begins at the Grassroots: The Case of Burno Village

National food security is a critical issue that begins with self-sufficiency efforts at the village level. In Indonesia, this concept is being tested in Burno village, located in East Java, about two hours’ drive from the provincial capital of Surabaya. Burno village has become a focal point for a national social forestry pilot project that was launched in 2021. This project allows the local community to utilize forest areas for agricultural purposes, including rice cultivation. The initiative is a step towards achieving food self-sufficiency, which is essential for ensuring that the village can sustain itself even in challenging times. Lumajang Regional Forest Service Branch head Achmad Achyani highlighted the potential of Burno village, stating, "Burno’s land is fertile, and all types of plants are there. So, if this were a country, and if it were blockaded, it would survive because it has achieved food self-sufficiency." This perspective underscores the importance of local initiatives in building a resilient food system.

The Need for a Long-Term Approach to Food Self-Sufficiency

While the efforts in Burno village are commendable, agriculture experts have expressed skepticism about Indonesia’s rushed plans for food self-sufficiency. They emphasize that achieving food security requires a long-term approach, rather than quick fixes or political promises. Ayib Said Abdullah, coordinator of the People’s National Coalition for Food Security, noted the absence of a clear roadmap or strategy from the government. He stated, "Unfortunately, to this day, we have not been able to see, find, or read documents, scenarios, or roadmaps prepared by the government on food self-sufficiency." This lack of planning raises concerns about the sustainability and effectiveness of current initiatives. If programs and policies are merely designed to fulfill political promises, they may fail to address the underlying issues that hinder food security. Abdullah expressed his disappointment, saying, "If the programmes and policies that are made are just to fulfill political promises, for me that is something that is very sad because the stakes concern this nation."

Budget Cuts and Their Impact on Food Security

The challenges in achieving food self-sufficiency are further complicated by recent budget cuts. Last month, Prabowo, the Indonesian Defense Minister, issued a directive ordering a budget cut of 256 trillion rupiah (approximately US$15.76 billion) for ministries and state agencies. These cuts are expected to slash funding for critical infrastructure projects, including irrigation systems, which are essential for boosting agricultural production. Farming experts warn that this move, combined with the challenges posed by climate change, could be the final blow to Indonesia’s hopes for food security. The reduction in funding for irrigation systems is particularly concerning, as these systems are vital for maintaining agricultural productivity, especially in the face of increasing climate variability.

The Interplay of Budget Cuts and Climate Change

The combination of budget cuts and climate change presents a formidable challenge to Indonesia’s food security. Climate change is already affecting agricultural production in various parts of the country, with extreme weather events, changing rainfall patterns, and rising temperatures disrupting crop yields. The budget cuts further exacerbate this vulnerability by reducing the resources available to adapt to these changes. For example, without adequate funding for irrigation systems, farmers may struggle to maintain their crops during dry seasons or droughts. This could lead to food shortages and increased reliance on imports, undermining efforts to achieve self-sufficiency. Experts warn that the government’s decision to cut funding for critical infrastructure could have long-term consequences for the nation’s food security.

Political Promises and the Risk of Short-Term Thinking

The skepticism expressed by experts is also fueled by concerns about political promises and short-term thinking. Food security is a complex issue that requires careful planning, investment, and a long-term vision. However, political leaders often prioritize short-term gains or populist measures that may not address the root causes of food insecurity. This approach can lead to policies that are not sustainable or effective in the long run. For instance, initiatives that focus on increasing food production in the short term may neglect the need for sustainable agricultural practices or ignore the impacts of climate change. This short-sightedness can undermine efforts to build a resilient food system and leave the country vulnerable to future challenges.

The Way Forward: A Call for Systemic Change

To achieve food security, Indonesia must adopt a more holistic and sustainable approach. This requires a commitment to long-term planning, investment in critical infrastructure, and the development of policies that address the root causes of food insecurity. The government must also engage with local communities, farmers, and experts to ensure that their perspectives and needs are taken into account. Simply relying on political promises or short-term fixes is not enough. The case of Burno village highlights the potential of local initiatives, but it also underscores the need for systemic change at the national level. Without a coordinated and sustainable effort, Indonesia’s food security goals will remain elusive, placing the nation at risk of food shortages and dependency on imports. The stakes are high, and the time for action is now.