Central Java's Economic Growth and Food Self-Sufficiency Achievements Deemed Satisfactory

This was highlighted during the National Conference on Regional Economic Development themed ‘Accelerating Regional Economic Growth Through Cross-Sectoral Policy Synergy’, held at Balai Kartini Grand Ballroom in Jakarta on Monday, 25 May 2026. Financial Services Authority (OJK) Chairperson Frederica Widyasari Dewi stated that Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has implemented a food self-sufficiency programme based on regional potential mapping, followed by tailored initiatives to ensure its success. ‘Governor Luthfi’s rice and corn programmes (food self-sufficiency) support national food security,’ Frederica said in a written statement on Monday (25 May 2026). Frederica noted that the strategies reflect a strong commitment to advancing the region according to its potential. Consequently, the OJK is encouraging the financial services sector to support these regional programmes. Rice production in Central Java, as of April 2026, has been notably high. In the first quarter of 2026, it reached 4,696,422 tonnes, approximately 44.48% of the annual target of 10.5 million tonnes. According to Statistics Indonesia (BPS) data, Central Java’s paddy forecast for January-June 2026 is 5,674,991 tonnes of GKG, ranking second after East Java. Meanwhile, Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi stated that to achieve food self-sufficiency in 2026, his administration has undertaken various efforts to boost productivity. This is due to the predicted longer dry season in 2026 compared to 2025. To address this, relevant regional agencies have been instructed to ensure water availability. Next, preparing millennial farmers by training young farmers through the Empowered Subdistrict Programme, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture. Additionally, the Central Java provincial government is upgrading UMKM through training, financing, and sales support. The success of the food self-sufficiency programme has indirectly boosted regional economic growth, contributing to national economic expansion. Notably, Central Java’s economic growth in Q1 2026 was 5.89%, surpassing the national figure of 5.61%. Economic Coordination Minister Airlangga Hartarto also praised Central Java’s economic growth, noting it exceeded the national average. ‘If a region’s economic growth is below the national average, it becomes a drag,’ he said.