“The Air Force is committed to supporting national food security programs,” said Air Force Chief of Staff Marshal Mohammad Tonny Harjono in a statement from West Sumatra.
To support the agenda, the Air Force launched a corn cultivation initiative in the province, marked by a mass harvest at Sutan Sjahrir Air Base in Padang.
“This harvest reflects the strong synergy between the Air Force and the community,” Harjono said.
During his visit, Harjono distributed corn seeds and staple food packages to local farmers receiving agricultural guidance from the military.
Related news: Maluku prepares 35,000 hectares for agricultural downstreaming
He reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to working with communities to help realize the government’s food goals and restore Indonesia’s agricultural self-sufficiency.
His visit aimed to boost morale among farmers and encourage increased agricultural output to support the national food strategy.
President Prabowo has repeatedly emphasized food security as a cornerstone of his administration, calling it essential to national resilience.
In his address at the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York on Sept. 23, Prabowo highlighted Indonesia’s efforts to build robust food supply chains and improve agricultural productivity.
“This year, we achieved our highest rice production and grain reserves. We are now self-sufficient in rice and have started exporting to other countries in need,” Prabowo said.
He voiced confidence that Indonesia could become a global food hub within the next few years as part of its broader development goals.
Related news: Govt pursues food security for public welfare
Translator: Muhammad Z, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
