"Though our agricultural sector is not significantly affected by El Nino, we cannot be entirely certain," Limpo cautioned.
The minister made the remark during a coordination meeting to discuss the impact of El Nino on the agricultural sector in Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan, on Friday.
Limpo pointed out that the impact of El Nino is real worldwide and directly threatens the continuity of agriculture in Indonesia.
Although the minister was not concerned about the condition of land in South Kalimantan, which is mostly swampland, with sufficiently maintained water intensity, he nonetheless underscored the need for real action from all parties to keep the rice production high.
"South Kalimantan usually has high rice production," he stated.
Hence, Limpo emphasized that during the El Nino climate, the agricultural sector in South Kalimantan should be maintained, so it can continue to contribute to national food security.
The minister was also pleased that the regional government as well as other regencies and districts and stakeholders, such as the Indonesian National Armed Forces, Indonesian Police, and High Court, have committed to intervening and improving recent conditions.
"Moreover, the governor also mentioned that his province has prepared 100 thousand hectares for cultivation to provide food security, both regionally and nationally," Limpo noted.
The minister drew attention to various measures being taken to prepare for the effects of El Nino, such as expediting the cultivation process, utilizing heat-resistant crop varieties, implementing mechanization in vulnerable areas, and implementing upstream-to-downstream management.
Limpo is upbeat that South Kalimantan Province can produce over one million tons of rice in 2023.
"From the data I saw, last year's production reached 800 thousand tons. Hence, I am certain that it can be raised to one million tons," he stated.
South Kalimantan is one of the six flagship provinces to support national food security in accordance with the president's directive to the ministry.
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Translator: Yoanita Hastryka Djohan
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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