Jakarta, May 16, 2024 – Rote, the southernmost outer island of Indonesia, holds significant potential in the agricultural sector despite its low rainfall. Various dry crop cultivations such as corn, sorghum, and tubers, which are resilient to drought conditions, are developed here. According to data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) of East Nusa Tenggara Province, by 2023, the number of agricultural enterprises with food crops in the Rote area reached 16,951 units, with a population of 150,521 people. Approximately 11.26 percent of the Rote population focuses on farming as their livelihood. Therefore, for the people of Rote, the agricultural sector is a vital pillar for the continuity of the region's economy.

Recognizing the substantial and continually developing potential in Rote, PT Pupuk Indonesia (Persero) understands the importance of providing direct support for the sustainability of this agricultural sector. "On this occasion, together with the Pupuk Indonesia team as part of the Jelajah Pangan Nusantara (Exploring National Food) program, we visited Rote Island, the southernmost outer island of Indonesia. This program is our effort to explore food potentials in Indonesia," said Pupuk Indonesia CEO Rahmad Pribadi during his visit to Rote (May 11-13, 2024). Pupuk Indonesia's presence in Rote demonstrates the company's commitment to supporting agricultural development in Indonesia's outermost regions, which have significant potential to contribute to national food security.

Pupuk Indonesia supports the improvement of infrastructure and capabilities in the agricultural sector of Rote Island's community. This includes providing one buffer warehouse and five official kiosks to facilitate farmers' access to fertilizers, both subsidized and non-subsidized. This initiative aims to increase farmers' productivity, making them more prepared and independent in producing quality agriculture.

Agriculture in Rote Island mainly relies on rain-fed techniques, where farmers manage to harvest well without technical or semi-technical irrigation. Farmers in Rote independently use water pumps to irrigate their fields, achieving good and optimal harvests. Pupuk Indonesia plays a crucial role in providing adequate access to quality fertilizers, enabling farmers to improve their productivity and the quality of their agricultural yields.

"In central Rote, there is an extraordinary group of self-reliant farmers. They use pumps in rain-fed fields and achieve excellent and remarkable harvests. Thank you, Rote farmers, for participating in national food security. Pupuk Indonesia is ready to support and collaborate with anyone, anywhere in Indonesia, who wants to support national food security," added Rahmad.

Looking ahead, Pupuk Indonesia's Jelajah Pangan Nusantara program will continue by visiting various other regions in Indonesia. After East Nusa Tenggara, the expedition will explore other agricultural potential areas, including the Riau Islands, Lampung, Karawang, Berastagi, Malang, North Sulawesi, Merauke, Manokwari, Fakfak, and other cities or regencies.

"Hopefully, through this program, Pupuk Indonesia can not only support national food security but also enhance the welfare of farmers across the country. By utilizing appropriate agricultural technology and providing access to quality fertilizers, Indonesia can continue to optimize its agricultural potential for a better future," concluded Rahmad.