South Kalimantan's DPKP turns Bukit Merangkul into an integrated farming zone

Banjarmasin (ANTARA) – The Department of Agriculture and Food Security (DPKP) of South Kalimantan Province (Kalsel) is developing the Bukit Merangkul area in Bangkal, Banjarbaru City, as an integrated farming zone with a range of commodities. ‘In this location there is not only maize, but also durian, legumes, and even chillies. All agricultural sectors are being optimised in line with the Governor’s directives so that this land is truly productive and benefits the community,’ said Syamsir Rahman, head of DPKP Kalsel, in Banjarbaru on Friday. According to him, the Bukit Merangkul development involves various agencies, such as the Forestry Service, the Plantation Service, and Banjarbaru City Government. The aim is to rebalance the area to become productive agricultural land and an asset to the region. Besides, a gazebo has been built in the area, allowing the public to enjoy the panorama of the agriculture fields. ‘This location has great potential for us to manage and develop. With the support of various parties and farmer groups, Bukit Merangkul is expected to become an agricultural zone that provides significant benefits to regional food security,’ he said. Syamsir added that efforts to increase maize production continue as part of supporting the national food self-sufficiency programme. Maize production in South Kalimantan is continuing to rise. ‘Our maize production has increased to around 150 thousand tonnes compared with the previous year. This is thanks to the cooperation of all parties, including the authorities’ support and the enthusiasm of farmers,’ he said. At the same time, the provincial government also handed over development assistance to the Banjarbaru City Agriculture Department amounting to Rp230 million to support the agricultural sector in the region. ‘Through harvest activities and ongoing coaching, the South Kalimantan Provincial Government hopes that the Bukit Merangkul area can continue to develop as a centre for agricultural development while supporting the realisation of regional food security,’ he explained. Meanwhile, the Bukit Merangkul Farmers Group is currently developing hybrid maize of variety 212 with productivity of around 7.1 tonnes per hectare. ‘The yield is quite good for the first planting season,’ he said. Normally, productivity of hybrid maize can reach 9-10 tonnes per hectare, so moving forward harvest yields are expected to continue to improve through coaching and more optimal management.