"God willing, the food self-sufficiency we aspire to will soon come to fruition if there is collaboration," he said.
He made the statement while accompanying Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan at a national food independence event held in a village in Ngawi, East Java, on Monday.
Susanto affirmed that his ministry is fully committed to ensuring the success of food self-sufficiency efforts.
He noted that the ministry’s efforts toward this goal include mandating a minimum Village Fund allocation of Rp16 trillion (nearly US$972 million) for the food security program.
Susanto and Hasan kicked off the event by participating in the methel tradition—a ceremonial first harvest symbolizing gratitude before the main harvest. The tradition serves to honor nature and the Earth's abundance.
Afterward, Susanto donned a farmer's straw hat and symbolically took part in the harvest.
Hasan then observed the purchase of unhulled rice from local farmers to support their welfare and stabilize paddy prices, which the government has set at Rp6,500 (around $0.40) per kilogram.
He said that President Prabowo Subianto has called for accelerating food self-sufficiency efforts, emphasizing that the sector covers key commodities such as rice and corn, which provide carbohydrates, as well as chicken, eggs, milk, and meat, which supply protein.
He stressed that achieving food self-sufficiency cannot be done by the central government alone but requires the involvement of local governments and the community.
Related news: Food production shows positive developments in 2025: Ministry
Related news: Indonesia stresses sustainable palm oil for food, energy security
Translator: Tri, Kenzu
Editor: Anton Santoso
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
