Banda Aceh (ANTARA News) - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has urged the regional governments to optimize the cultivation of superior crops in their respective regions.

"The farmers and local governments should not merely focus on a single commodity, as there are several other commodities whose prices are quite promising," President Jokowi stated on the sidelines of inaugurating the National Week (Penas) of the Farmers Association (KTNA) being held on May 6-11 at the Harapan Bangsa Stadium, Lhoong Raya, Banda Aceh, on Saturday.

Jokowi explained that the governors, regents, and mayors should oversee the planting of superior crops that fetch a high price in their respective areas.

He noted that currently, few cocoa plantations still remain. Although there are several processing companies, the production of the commodity by farmers is limited, while the commoditys price is quite promising.

"Several good commodities, such as Gayo Coffee that has a good taste, can also be developed in other areas. Why not plant other commodities," he remarked.

Jokowi recalled the time when he resided in Bener Meriah. He admitted to following the practice of drinking arabica coffee from Gayo, having a distinctive and good taste, every morning.

During the visit to the province of Indonesias westernmost tip, President Jokowi was accompanied by First Lady Iriana and several cabinet ministers.

Some 35 thousand participants from all provinces in the country are attending the KTNA Penas.(*)

Editor: Heru Purwanto
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