President Jokowi Calls on Cabinet to Ensure Fertilizer Supply

Minister of Agriculture Syahrul Yasin Limpo delivers press statement, at the Presidential Palace compound, Jakarta, Wednesday (03/15). (Photo by: PR of Presidential Secretariat/Rahmat)

President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo has called on the Cabinet to maintain the availability of fertilizer supply considering its vital role for maintaining agricultural productivity and national food security.

The statement was made by the President during a limited cabinet meeting on Wednesday (03/15).

Minister of Agriculture Syahrul Yasin Limpo in a press statement after joining the limited meeting stated that the President has warned related ministers and heads of agencies of the fertilizer-related matter.

He went on to say that based on Indonesia’s Definitive Plan for Group Needs (RDKK), the demand of subsidized fertilizer is huge, exceeding 20 million tons. On the other hand, the Government’s budget can only procure 8 to 9 million tons. Therefore, he said that the Ministry will draw up a regulation to provide subsidized fertilizer for farmers who grow nine agricultural commodities.

“This year, we have amended the regulation of Minister of Agriculture; adjusting the commodities from 69 to nine which all are related to prioritized foods and that which contributed to the inflation and strengthened our export,” he added.

The Ministry, he stressed, will also adopt measures to enhance coordination with related stakeholders, including with state fertilizer holding company PT Pupuk Indonesia in ensuring the fertilizer stock at all levels of administration to the farmers.

“Prepare the fertilizer from provincial level, regency’s level, district’s level, and so on. Thus, the coordination must be strengthened,” he firmly asserted.

Syahrul said that the President gave the Ministry 2-3 months spare time to improve a system of providing subsidized fertilized. It aimed at ensuring fair distribution that is in line with the plan and adheres to the standard operating procedure (SOP).

“We hope those who are eligible for the subsidized fertilizer will receive it and no fertilized will be handed out without sticking to the right plan and SOP,” he remarked adding that cooperation between governors, regents, village administrators, and field agricultural instructors is vital to address the issue of fertilizer. (TGH/UN) (RAS/HD/MUR)