Remarks of President of the Republic of Indonesia at the Awarding of the Agricola Medal by the Director-General of Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), August 30, 2024

Asalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakaatuh,

Distinguished Director General of FAO Mr. Qu Dongyu and the delegates present,

Ministers of the Indonesia Onward Cabinet,

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

First of all, I would like to express my highest appreciation for the awarding of the Agricola Medal by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). This is an honor for me.

Indonesia is very much aware of the importance of food sovereignty and self-sufficiency because food is a basic human need that cannot be adjourned and ignored. All nations should actualize the availability and affordability of food for their people.

The food security program is indeed one of the Government’s priorities because Indonesia is very aware of the importance of food independence and sovereignty, especially amidst various uncertainties in the world.

We are grateful that Indonesia’s agricultural sector continued to grow by 1.7 percent during the pandemic, contributing 12.5 percent to the national GDP in 2023. All of this cannot be separated from the role of all components of the nation in actualizing food security and independence.

Therefore, we also dedicate this Agricola Medal award to all farmers, all communities who have actively contributed to strengthening the agricultural sector.

I hope the highest award in food and agriculture can awaken Indonesia’s collective energy to contribute more to world food security.

Indonesia also hopes that FAO can continue to be a solid bridge, uniting the world for joint food security.

I thank you.

Wassalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.

(AW/EP)