President Jokowi in Subang to Visit Rice Research Center

President Jokowi accompanied by a number of ministers and regional heads visit the Indonesian Center of Rice Research in Subang regency, West Java province, Tuesday (07/12). (Photo: BPMI/Muchlis Jr)

To monitor the availability of food crops, especially rice, President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo Tuesday (07/12) visited the Center for Rice Research (BBPadi) in West Java regency of Subang.

“I came here to ensure the availability of food, especially rice, because this is where the seeds of superior varieties are prepared,” the President said, while reminding that Indonesia must brace for the global food crisis.

“We know that the world is experiencing food shortages; hence, we must stay vigilant and ensure that our food availability remains in check,” he said.

The President also inspected a germplasm warehouse, where a variety of collections and conservation of rice germplasm is stored.

“I also inspected what the BPPadi has done in preparing superior varieties of food and finding new varieties. The most widely planted rice variant are Inpari 32 and Inpari 42 as well as other varieties,” he said, adding that seeds availability is crucial to increase domestic rice production in every hectare, supported by assistance from Agricultural Field Extension Officers (PPL).

“If properly assisted, one hectare of Inpari 32 (and) Inpari 42 can produce approximately 12 tons of rice. I think 7-8 tons on average is a very good progress for our food supplies, especially rice,” he said, adding that  other commodities other than rice must also be developed.

“We must not depend on rice. Instead, we must also develop other commodities, including as sago, sorghum, porang, corn, cassava, and others. We have the opportunity to increase our production,” he remarked. (FID/AIT/UN) (EST/EP)