Several of the invited ministers said that President Prabowo sought updates on government programs, particularly those aimed at strengthening national food security and improving the welfare of coastal communities.
“Food — we will talk about self-sufficiency in food,” Agriculture Minister Sulaiman told reporters upon arriving at the palace with Deputy Minister of Agriculture Sudaryono.
Separately at the palace complex, Fisheries Minister Trenggono stated that he would brief the president on the progress of the Red and White Fishing Villages (KNMP) program, which has been designated as a priority initiative.
“We are progressing with the program,” he said in response to reporters before entering the meeting.
Arriving later, Minister of Cooperatives Ferry Juliantono confirmed that the main focus of the Cabinet meeting would be efforts to strengthen Indonesia’s food security and advance the KNMP program.
Since taking office on October 20 last year, President Prabowo has repeatedly reaffirmed his commitment to guiding Indonesia toward food self-sufficiency, including through the modernization of the agriculture sector.
The KNMP program was previously highlighted among five initiatives aimed at boosting workforce absorption, announced by Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto on September 15 as part of a package of 17 economic and empowerment programs.
Speaking to the media at the time, Airlangga explained that in its initial phase, the KNMP program targets at least 100 villages to improve the living standards of coastal communities.
“This year’s target is to establish KNMPs in 100 locations, which are expected to absorb 8,645 workers. In the long term, we aim to reach 4,000 fishing villages, with around 200,000 job opportunities expected to be created,” he said.
The other four empowerment initiatives include the Red and White Village Cooperatives program, the rejuvenation of smallholder plantations, the revitalization of fishing ponds along the northern coast of Java, and the modernization of fishing boats.
Combined, the five programs are expected to empower more than three million workers nationwide.
Related news: Minister asks women entrepreneurs to support national food security
Related news: Military plays key role in supporting regional food security
Translator: Genta T, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: M Razi Rahman
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
