"This agroforestry program aims to bolster national food security while also creating new job opportunities," said Army Chief of Staff General Maruli Simanjuntak during a mass harvest event in Purwakarta District, West Java, on Saturday.
He stated that the TNI-AD plans to expand the program to multiple areas across West Java, with each region expected to allocate at least 200 hectares of land for cultivating both agricultural and forestry crops.
So far, the program has empowered around 5,000 families, with a target of 1 hectare per family. Simanjuntak noted that the initiative is expected to generate income exceeding regional minimum wages for participating families.
Highlighting the importance of collaboration, the general said the Army is working with the West Java provincial government, state-owned plantation firm PTPN, and state-owned fertilizer producer PT Pupuk Indonesia to implement the program.
He expressed confidence that the initiative would support President Prabowo Subianto’s vision for food self-sufficiency.
Simanjuntak also noted that the Army and local governments are partnering to develop critical infrastructure, particularly in transportation, mobility, and clean water access.
West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi praised the TNI-AD’s involvement, stressing the need to shift public perceptions of agriculture.
He encouraged military and police officers to play a more active role in inspiring young people to explore opportunities in West Java’s agricultural and tourism sectors.
Meanwhile, Purwakarta District Head Saepul Bahri Binzein said the agroforestry program will help strengthen food security and promote tourism in the region.
He also revealed plans to replicate the program across local villages, with a goal of at least 3 hectares of agroforestry land per village.
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Translator: M. Ali, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Anton Santoso
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