Lampung Further Establishes Itself as a National Watermelon Hub
Amidst the increasing demand for fresh fruit across various regions, Lampung continues to demonstrate its role as one of Indonesia’s most important watermelon production hubs. Supported by favourable agro-climatic conditions, watermelons from Lampung not only fulfil local market needs but also serve as a primary supplier to various regions in Sumatra and Java.
The success of Lampung as a watermelon hub is inseparable from farmers’ ability to adopt various cultivation innovations, including the use of superior seeds that can meet market demands and address field challenges. Over the years, farmers in various watermelon production centres in Lampung have continuously developed increasingly modern and efficient cultivation practices, thereby boosting productivity and the quality of the harvest.
Central Lampung Regent, I Komang Koheri, stated that Central Lampung Regency is an area rich in agricultural potential. The watermelon commodity from Central Lampung has proven to possess exceptional quality and can meet both local and national market needs. “The regional government is fully committed to continuously supporting farmers, from providing facilities and infrastructure, mentoring by extension officers, to efforts in maintaining post-harvest price stability,” asserted the Central Lampung Regent.
The spirit and success of Central Lampung’s watermelon farmers have even given birth to a symbol of local community pride through the inauguration of the AMARA Monument in Simpang Agung Village, Central Lampung Regency. The monument was built as a form of appreciation for the journey of watermelon farmers who have contributed to developing regional agriculture, while also serving as a reminder of the importance of collaboration between farmers, technological innovation, and support from various parties in advancing the horticultural sector.
Misno, a farmer from Simpang Agung Village in Central Lampung Regency who consistently develops his farming business through the application of innovation and cultivation technology, stated that the success achieved so far is underpinned by continuous technical mentoring. Various knowledge regarding cultivation management, fertilisation, disease control, and techniques for producing quality fruit is obtained through interaction and learning with the field team from PT East West Seed Indonesia (EWINDO).
“Previously, we farmed mostly based on experience. Over time, we learned a lot from the EWINDO team about more precise and efficient cultivation methods. The mentoring provided helps us understand evolving cultivation technology, from land preparation and plant maintenance to harvest handling. With the application of better technology, our yields have also increased,” said Misno.
Misno added that the use of the superior AMARA F1 watermelon seed is an important factor supporting the success of his farming enterprise. The fruit’s large character, high productivity, and resistance to various cultivation challenges have made this variety increasingly trusted by farmers in his area.
“AMARA F1 has become part of our farming journey. The fruit is large, the yield is satisfactory, and the market is good. Most importantly, we do not just get seeds, but also mentoring that helps us continue to grow. For that reason, to this day I still trust and grow together with EWINDO,” he said.