The land will be cultivated with key commodities such as coconut, cocoa, and sugarcane, and equipped with processing facilities funded by the central government.
Governor of Maluku Hendrik Lewerissa here on Wednesday said downstreaming is a strategic step to increase the added value of agricultural products.
He emphasized that industrialization in agriculture and fisheries cannot be delayed, with Buru Island selected as a starting point for development.
The planned processing plants are expected to convert raw materials into higher-value products such as coconut oil, packaged coconut milk, cocoa powder, and granulated sugar.
This process will extend shelf life, improve quality, and create new job opportunities for local communities.
The presence of these facilities is also projected to make Maluku more competitive in both national and international markets.
Lewerissa highlighted that the initiative reflects President Prabowo Subianto’s commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector in Maluku.
He noted that downstreaming will reduce farmers’ reliance on selling raw produce, thereby improving their livelihoods, boosting regional competitiveness, and reinforcing the national economy.
The governor added that the local government is open to collaboration with central agencies, regional institutions, and the private sector to expand downstreaming initiatives across other districts in Maluku.
“For Maluku, this is an important momentum to ensure that its abundant agricultural potential truly contributes to regional development and national food security,” Lewerissa said.
Downstreaming is the process of transforming raw materials or commodities into higher-value products to increase economic benefits and productivity.
It takes place at the downstream stage of the production chain, where finished or semi-finished products are sold to consumers or markets.
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Translator: Primayanti
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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