President Prabowo Emphasises Food Security as a Matter of National Survival
President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised that food security is a fundamental issue concerning the survival and sovereignty of Indonesia. He made these remarks during the inauguration of the operationalisation of 1,061 Desa and Kelurahan Merah Putih (KDMP) cooperatives in Nganjuk, East Java, on Thursday, 15th May.
The President stated that food should not be viewed merely as a commodity or an economic issue. According to him, the availability of food is the primary foundation of a nation’s strength.
“I always say that food is a matter of life and death for a nation. I do not see food as just a commodity. Food is a matter of a nation’s survival,” Prabowo asserted.
In his speech, Prabowo appreciated the performance of the Ministry of Agriculture and all related parties for accelerating the target of food self-sufficiency. The President revealed that this achievement exceeded the government’s initial expectations.
“I gave the task to the Minister of Agriculture and all his team. I asked for self-sufficiency within 4 years. They managed to achieve it in 1 year. I am grateful,” he said.
The President also emphasised that, as a leader, he bears full responsibility for ensuring the food sufficiency of the Indonesian people. He does not want any citizens to experience hunger amidst the nation’s vast natural resources.
“I am responsible if this nation is hungry. I am responsible,” he stated firmly.
Prabowo’s view on the urgency of food is rooted in his experience in the military. He likened food sovereignty to logistical readiness in a military operation.
“Before we embark on an operation, we check how much rice we have. If the troops have no rice, if the troops do not eat, they cannot fight,” Prabowo explained.
Regarding the global dynamics, Prabowo mentioned that Indonesia’s success in maintaining its national food stocks is now attracting international attention. While many countries are restricting exports, Indonesia is now being asked to supply global rice needs.
However, the President reminded that export policies should still prioritise domestic interests and the welfare of farmers. He requested that selling prices remain competitive and that national reserves remain secure amidst global uncertainty.
“Don’t stop [exports], but don’t sell too cheaply. Remember, the crisis could last a long time. Our priority is to secure our people first,” he concluded. (Z-10)