Facing Godzilla El Niño Threat, DPR Member Urges Solar-Powered Pump Irrigation

JAKARTA - A member of Commission IV of the Indonesian House of Representatives from the Gerindra Party faction, TA Khalid, has spotlighted the effectiveness of pump irrigation programmes as a measure to anticipate the potential Godzilla El Niño in 2026.

In the working meeting (Raker) and hearing of opinions (RDP) with the Minister of Agriculture and the Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, at the DPR RI Building, on Tuesday (7/4/2027).

He suggested that the government consider using solar-powered pumps in some locations, so that farmers no longer depend on fuel distribution that is difficult to reach.

“My suggestion, perhaps in some locations use solar power,” said TA Khalid.

He mentioned that rice fields located at the ends of regions with limited access make it difficult for farmers to bring fuel to operate water pumps.

“In fact, in the field, especially in Aceh, farmers are overwhelmed because they have to bring fuel all the way to distant rice field locations. The initial enthusiasm is there, but in practice, it is not effective,” Khalid stated during the meeting.

Those figures are considered the highest in history and an important asset for maintaining national food security.

Nevertheless, he reminded the need for careful stock management to ensure rice quality is maintained and does not decline.

In the fertiliser sector, Khalid expressed optimism that the geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East will not significantly impact national fertiliser availability.

He assessed that the fertiliser industry foundation that has been built for a long time provides resilience for Indonesia’s agricultural sector.

He also highlighted the condition of agricultural land and ponds in Aceh, which are considered not fully recovered in the last four to five months.

Based on reports he received, around 10 percent of the area, including in Muara Batu, still does not show optimal activity.

“We ask for serious attention from the Minister of Agriculture and the Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, because in Aceh there are still ponds that are not functioning and agricultural land that has not returned to normal,” he said.

In addition, he conveyed appreciation for various government efforts in promoting rice and maize self-sufficiency, including anticipatory steps to face the 2026 El Niño.