"In order to achieve the target of actualizing food self-sufficiency by 2027, it is necessary to deal with obstacles, including those associated with irrigation. To this end, we should optimize the existing canals and build new ones," he remarked.
Speaking on Saturday while presiding over a coordination meeting on food in Bandarlampung City, Lampung, Hasan elaborated that the central government's interventions in regions might help the nation achieve the optimal operation of irrigation systems more quickly.
He then stated that the government intends to pursue the rehabilitation and development of irrigation canals in a bid to supply adequate water to rainfed agricultural lands scattered across the country.
Hasan, however, pointed out that regional governments would still have the authority to manage their irrigation systems independently, provided they are considered capable of doing so.
The coordinating minister also highlighted that the central government had been striving to streamline rather complex rules regarding the management of irrigation systems.
"A presidential regulation on irrigation has been finalized and will be approved by the head of state soon. Hence, we would like to urge governors, district heads, and regional agriculture offices to inform us on which areas require irrigation assistance," he remarked.
He then affirmed that the government would directly oversee and evaluate progress in the implementation of irrigation projects in the next three months.
"We seek a quick end to irrigation issues in order to actualize food self-sufficiency as targeted," he noted.
He also expressed hope that irrigation systems of higher quality would enable farmers in Indonesia's vast agricultural area to increase their crop-planting frequency from once to twice annually.
Related news: Indonesia pushing irrigation rehabilitation for food self-sufficiency
Related news: VP Gibran stresses government's commitment to food self-sufficiency
Translator: Ruth Intan, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Arie Novarina
Copyright © ANTARA 2024
