Synergy between the Central Government and the West Papua Provincial Government to Realize the National Food Security Program
MANOKWARI – The West Papua Provincial Government (Pemprov) has shown a strong commitment to supporting the National Food Security Program by carrying out close synergy with the central government. This step was taken to ensure sustainable food security in the region, which has an important role in ensuring food availability for all Indonesian people, especially in the West Papua region.
The Acting Governor of West Papua, Ali Baham Tamongmere stated that the development of the agricultural sector is a top priority in achieving food security in this province. “Food security is one of the main focuses in building a better West Papua. Therefore, we continue to support all forms of efforts that can increase food production and utilize existing agricultural potential,” he said.
Previously, Assistant II of the West Papua Regional Secretariat, Melkias Werinussa said that the West Papua Provincial Government continues to show its commitment to supporting the national food security program as directed by the President of the Republic of Indonesia, “responsibility for this program is a national obligation that also involves the regional government,” he said.
The synergy between the central government and the West Papua Provincial Government is also seen in various programs that support the strengthening of the agricultural sector, such as the provision of superior seeds, farmer training, and assistance with agricultural facilities and infrastructure. The West Papua Provincial Government, together with related ministries, has designed various policies to support increased food production, ranging from staple foods such as rice, corn, to horticulture and other food crops.
According to the Head of the West Papua Food Crops, Horticulture, and Plantation Service (TPHBUN), Agustinus Warbal, various programs that have been running involve various stakeholders ranging from government agencies, private institutions, and community groups. With good coordination between related parties, it is hoped that food security can continue to be maintained and even increased. “We continue to take concrete and measurable steps to ensure sufficient food production, both for local consumption and to meet national needs,” said the Head of the Service.
Furthermore, the West Papua Provincial Government also focuses on increasing the capacity of local farmers through education and training aimed at improving their skills and knowledge in farming in a modern and efficient manner. The central government through the Ministry of Agriculture provides full support for the implementation of these programs, including in terms of funding and providing facilities needed by farmers in West Papua.
National food security, which is one of the main priorities in national development, is expected to be achieved with solid support and synergy between the central and regional governments. The West Papua Provincial Government is committed to continuing to collaborate with various parties to realize food security programs that can reduce dependence on imported food and improve community welfare through the sustainability of the agricultural sector.
