Titiek: Fertiliser distribution faster after regulation simplification

Jakarta - Commission IV Chair of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Siti Hediati ‘Titiek’ Soeharto, stated that the distribution of subsidised fertiliser has become faster following the government’s simplification of governance. Titiek said that 145 regulations deemed obstructive have been cut, allowing farmers to receive subsidised fertiliser more promptly. “We express our appreciation to the government for cutting the 145 regulations for obtaining fertiliser, shortening the process so that farmers can receive fertiliser on time,” she said. According to her, the availability of fertiliser is a crucial factor in maintaining agricultural productivity and supporting the target of food self-sufficiency. In addition to regulatory simplification, she also appreciated the government’s policy of providing a 20 per cent discount on subsidised fertiliser. This policy is considered capable of easing the production cost burden on farmers. “The government has provided a 20 per cent discount on subsidised fertiliser, which greatly helps farmers and makes them more enthusiastic about farming in order to achieve food self-sufficiency,” she stated. On the same occasion, Commission IV also highlighted the importance of accurate farmer data through the electronic system Rencana Definitif Kebutuhan Kelompok (e-RDKK) as the basis for targeted subsidised fertiliser distribution. Titiek assessed that agricultural extension workers play a vital role in assisting farmers to fill in and update e-RDKK data. With accurate data, fertiliser needs, distribution timing, and the type of fertiliser required for specific commodities can be mapped out more precisely.