Palembang, The Indonesia Post – Governor of South Sumatra (Sumsel) H. Herman Deru, accompanied by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives (DPR) of the Republic of Indonesia for Industry and Development Affairs (Korinbang), H. Saan Mustopa, conducted an inspection and dialogue with local farmers at the National Rice Barn and Main Food Security Center located in Seri Menanti Village, Tanjung Lago District, Banyuasin Regency, on Wednesday (October 15, 2025).
During the visit, Governor Deru emphasized that Banyuasin Regency serves as one of the key buffer regions for food security in South Sumatra. He noted that the majority of South Sumatra’s population works as farmers, cultivating both plantation and paddy fields, with vast potential in key agricultural commodities.
“Around 80 percent of oil palm plantations are owned by large corporations, while 99 percent of rubber plantations belong to smallholder farmers. As for coffee, South Sumatra ranks as the third-largest producer in the world,” Governor Deru stated.
He also praised the farmers’ dedication and effective water and irrigation management in the area. According to Deru, the provincial government continues to strengthen farmers’ capacity through the Agricultural Economic Empowerment Assistance Program (P2EP), which involves around 2,000 agricultural extension officers across the province.
“This area has undergone land optimization to support food self-sufficiency, covering approximately 300 hectares, with continuously increasing production. The provincial government has also distributed assistance to 17 regencies and cities, with a total value exceeding 2 trillion rupiah,” he explained.
Governor Deru’s visit underscored the provincial government’s commitment to bolstering agricultural resilience and ensuring sustainable food security across South Sumatra.
(mhn/ril)
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