"Because it is precisely on this aspect (post-harvest processing) that the greatest profit will be gained," he explained at the Aceh Millennial Farmers Jamboree, Langsa, Aceh, on Wednesday, according to a press release received here on Wednesday.
Farming must be seen as a promising and prosperous job so that it can attract the younger generation, he noted. According to him, currently, as many as 71 percent of the total farmers are over 45 years old, while only 29 percent are less than 45 years old.
In fact, the agricultural sector is very important for building Indonesia's food self-sufficiency, he said.
"Especially now, the world is facing the threat of a food crisis in which more than 190 million people across several countries in the world are experiencing food shortages," he added.
He observed that currently, there are many youths who have potential and innovation, especially in the information technology aspect. This can be a big capital to build and develop the agricultural sector.
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Moeldoko urged the regional government and stakeholders to fully support the efforts made by the youth in the agricultural sector and develop it beyond its state as a potential.
Acting Mayor of Langsa, Said Mahdum Majid, said that he expected the Aceh Millennial Farmers Jamboree to serve as a reminder of farmers' strategic contribution to national development.
In addition, the event could spark the interest of the younger generation in working in the agricultural sector by becoming advanced and modern farmers, he remarked.
"With the continuity of generations of farmers and advances in science and technology in agriculture, God willing, we will be able to create a country that is strong and sovereign in terms of its own food," Majid said.
At least two thousand farmers and residents of Langsa city participated in the event, which aimed to increase people’s enthusiasm for farming, especially the younger generation.
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Translator: Indra Arief P, Mecca Yumna
Editor: Suharto
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