"Our mission is to ensure the transmigration program goes beyond relocating people, using it to improve the welfare of transmigrants and local residents," Deputy Minister of Transmigration Viva Yoga Mauladi said at the 2026 Pineapple Festival in Kampar District, Riau, on Saturday.
Speaking at the Center for Transmigration Community Training and Empowerment (BPPMT), he noted that the ministry has prepared a demonstration plot within the BPPMT complex for pilot agricultural and aquaculture projects in transmigration zones.
"We plan to promote in transmigration zones the cultivation or farming of pineapples, tilapia, chickens, and hydroponic plants," Mauladi added.
On that note, the deputy minister said the government intends to promote biofloc-based tilapia cultivation and hydroponic planting in a transmigration zone covering the islands of Batam, Rempang, and Galang in Batam City, Riau Islands Province, to build economic independence and food self-sufficiency there.
He said the transmigration program is being directed to support the national food security drive, with a focus on sources of carbohydrates and animal protein.
"In 2026, we will prioritize meeting the demand for animal protein, including by cultivating tilapia with biofloc technology in transmigration zones," he noted.
To that end, he continued, the government will upgrade key facilities and infrastructure in transmigration areas—such as roads, bridges, and schools—to stimulate economic activity and attract investment.
"We envision transmigration zones emerging as strategic investment areas to boost public income," he added.
He expressed hope that the new approach to the transmigration program will be replicated nationwide, enabling transmigration zones to grow into economic hubs that contribute significantly to the national economy.
During his visit to the BPPMT, the deputy minister reviewed the demonstration plot, planted pineapple seeds, fed tilapia, released fish fry, and spoke with farmers and micro, small, and medium enterprise operators.
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Translator: Aria A, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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