PALMOILMAGAZINE, PEKANBARU – The Faculty of Agriculture at Riau University (Unri), in collaboration with the Indonesian Agricultural Economics Association (PERHEPI) Pekanbaru Chapter and Lancang Kuning University (Unilak), successfully held an Agribusiness Studium Generale on Wednesday (19/2). The event, held at Unri’s Integrated Classroom Hall, was officially opened by Dr. Shorea Khaswarina, Vice Dean for Student Affairs, Cooperation, and Alumni at the Faculty of Agriculture.
Dr. Shorea highlighted that the event serves as a platform to enhance awareness and knowledge of the palm oil sector in supporting the government’s downstreaming program. “Hopefully, this forum will generate solutions to improve the welfare of oil palm farmers,” she stated.
According to Palmoilmagazine.com, citing Unri’s official website on Monday (24/2/2025), the event featured keynote speaker Prof. Bustanul Arifin, a professor of Agricultural Economics at Lampung University (Unila) and Chairman of PERHEPI (2021–2024). He discussed the Contribution of Palm Oil-Producing Regions in Improving Farmers’ Welfare in Indonesia and emphasized the importance of more effective plantation management.
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Moderated by Dr. Arifudin, Prof. Bustanul explained that Indonesia is the world’s largest palm oil producer, with Riau Province leading the country by producing nearly nine million tons annually. However, he noted that a lack of awareness in plantation management prevents this vast potential from fully benefiting farmers.
“With such abundant resources, we should act like a great nation,” said Prof. Bustanul. He stressed that the government’s commitment to downstreaming must be accompanied by collaboration from all societal sectors, including students, to achieve national welfare. “Food self-sufficiency is not the ultimate goal, but rather a means to ensure food security,” he added.
Before concluding the discussion, Dr. Arifudin shared his perspective with the attending students. “As the largest palm oil-producing region in Indonesia, Riau should have more researchers in the plantation sector,” he emphasized. He expressed hope that events like this would encourage students to engage in research and innovation to boost productivity and improve the livelihoods of palm oil farmers in Indonesia. (P2)
