PALMOILMAGAZINE, BOGOR – Indonesia’s pursuit of national food self-sufficiency has taken a more concrete turn. The Ministry of Agriculture (Kementan), through the Directorate General of Plantations, is intensifying the development of padi gogo (Gogo rice) as part of a sustainable strategy to boost rice production beyond traditional paddy fields.
This initiative actively involves stakeholders from the palm oil plantation sector through multi-stakeholder partnerships. The collaborative approach is viewed as a strategic solution to maximize the potential of dryland areas outside conventional rice fields.
The program aligns with the directive of Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman, who has emphasized the urgency for swift and tangible action amid increasingly complex agricultural challenges. He reaffirmed that achieving food self-sufficiency is a top national priority that cannot be compromised.
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“This program is not just a policy—it’s a concrete commitment to the future of our farmers and the nation’s food security. Food self-sufficiency is non-negotiable,” Minister Amran asserted.
Echoing this commitment, Acting Director General of Plantations Abdul Roni Angkat expressed confidence that the self-sufficiency target could be met faster if all stakeholders moved in unison. Cross-sector synergy, he said, is the key to success, particularly in optimizing dryland areas within plantation regions.
“The government can’t do this alone. We need active involvement from business players, especially in the palm oil sector, to help cultivate Gogo rice on available drylands. This is a collective effort for the sake of the Red and White,” said Roni, as quoted by Palmoilmagazine.com on Monday (28/7/2025).
He also urged field stakeholders facing technical challenges to maintain communication with the Directorate General of Plantations. Kementan, he added, is ready to provide full assistance and facilitation, as long as there is a strong commitment on the ground.
“We are fully prepared to support. With the right will and dedication, we can realize a resilient food system,” Roni concluded.
Driven by a spirit of mutual cooperation, the Gogo rice cultivation program is expected to mark a significant milestone in Indonesia’s journey toward achieving sovereign and sustainable food self-sufficiency. (P2)
