Observers Support Government’s Energy and Food Self-Sufficiency

Jakarta – The government’s efforts to achieve energy and food self-sufficiency have received support from observers.

They consider that the current program is a strategic step to optimize the potential of national resources to strengthen resilience in both sectors.

Economist who is also the Executive Director of the Segara Research Institute, Piter Abdullah, emphasized that Indonesia has the capacity to achieve food and energy self-sufficiency. However, he emphasized the importance of strong commitment and proper and holistic handling so that this goal is achieved.

“When talking about food and energy self-sufficiency, the nuance built by President Prabowo seems more on the concept of resilience that we have relatively abandoned so far,” said Piter

According to him, food and energy resilience are crucial aspects for national independence. He considered that without achieving self-sufficiency in the two sectors, Indonesia’s national resilience would remain vulnerable.

Piter also highlighted the great potential that Indonesia has, both in the agricultural and energy sectors. He gave an example that rice can be planted up to three times a year, but various obstacles such as land conversion and the decreasing number of young farmers are challenges that must be overcome immediately.

“Behind this problem we have an opportunity. If farmers have high profits, there is no need to push them, then farmers will increase their production. Many will be interested in agriculture. Food self-sufficiency will be achieved,” he explained.

Meanwhile, regarding the energy sector, Piter emphasized that Indonesia has almost all energy sources, from geothermal, natural gas, oil, coal, to wind energy. However, he emphasized that optimal management is the key to success.

“What needs to be emphasized is how this potential is managed optimally. Holistic efforts are needed, where the national policy framework then narrows down to the policy framework related to energy,” he said.

In the same vein, the Head of the SKK Migas Representative Office for Java, Bali, Nusa Tenggara, Anggono Mahendrawan, said that his party continues to optimize the existing energy potential. “We maintain and optimize the existing potential. In addition, we will also accelerate projects so that production can begin immediately,” he said.

With the support of various parties and targeted policies, efforts to achieve food and energy self-sufficiency are expected to be realized soon for stronger national resilience.

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