ASIATODAY.ID, JAKARTA — Indonesia is accelerating efforts to transform its agricultural sector as the country seeks to strengthen its position as a future global food powerhouse through modern farming, technological innovation, and the empowerment of farmers as agricultural entrepreneurs.
The ambition was highlighted following the inauguration of Yasir Machmud as Chairman of the National Board of Pengusaha Tani Indonesia under the Indonesian Farmers Association (HKTI) for the 2026–2031 period.
The inauguration took place during the 2026 HKTI National Working Meeting (Rakernas) at the Auditorium of the Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture in Jakarta on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, officiated by Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Chairman of HKTI Central Board Dr. Sudaryono.
Under the theme “Building National Food Independence Through Strengthening Modern Farmer Institutions and Entrepreneurship,” the meeting outlined a strategic vision to create a stronger agricultural ecosystem capable of competing in global markets.
Yasir Machmud said Indonesia has enormous potential to become a major force in the global food sector, supported by its vast natural resources, agricultural land, and diverse commodities.
“Food security is the foundation of national sovereignty. HKTI must strengthen farmers’ capacity, increase the added value of agricultural products, and encourage the growth of new agricultural entrepreneurs,” Yasir said.
He emphasized that becoming a global food powerhouse requires more than natural resources. Indonesia must accelerate the adoption of agricultural technology, improve human resource quality, strengthen farmer institutions, and develop integrated downstream industries.
“Indonesia has the potential to become a global food force. This potential must be supported by innovation, technology, and modern agricultural management so that Indonesian products can compete internationally,” he added.
The new HKTI leadership has outlined several strategic priorities, including strengthening farmer organizations, developing agricultural entrepreneurship, accelerating agricultural downstream processing, expanding technology-based farming, and improving the competitiveness of Indonesian agricultural products.
Yasir highlighted the need to transform farmers from traditional producers into modern agricultural entrepreneurs who can create greater economic value.
“Strong farmers will create food independence, strengthen the national economy, and improve public welfare,” he said.
Indonesia’s food agenda has become increasingly strategic amid global challenges, including climate change, supply chain disruptions, and rising demand for food commodities. Strengthening domestic production capacity and improving agricultural competitiveness are key priorities in building long-term food resilience.
Through collaboration among the government, private sector, academics, and farmer organizations, Indonesia aims to develop a resilient agricultural ecosystem and expand its role in the global food landscape. (Silvia Andriani)
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