Jakarta: Indonesia is ramping up efforts to achieve sugar self-sufficiency by expanding sugar cane plantations and implementing various intensification measures, Deputy Minister of Agriculture Harvick Hasnul Qolbi announced on Tuesday, reported Antara News.
The government, through Presidential Regulation No. 40 of 2023, has established a target to increase sugar cane production by implementing various measures. The overarching objective is to elevate national sugar production to 3.4 million tonnes between 2024 and 2028.
Qolbi highlighted the intensification efforts underway, including the rejuvenation and treatment of ratoons or new shoots of sugar cane. Addressing the crucial aspect of quality sugar cane seeds, he emphasized the need for strategic steps such as the phased provision of superior seeds, utilization of tissue culture methods, structured variety planning, reinforced supervision of seed distribution, and optimal utilization of the Sugarcane Seed Producers Forum.
Andi Nur Alam Syah, the Ministry’s Director-General of Plantations, underscored the commitment required to provide and absorb quality seeds to meet the production target. Syah stressed that those owning sugar cane seed varieties must commit to delivering quality varieties, while stakeholders like sugar mills must ensure the absorption of sugar cane produced by plantation owners. Additionally, he urged sugar cane farmers to optimize their production to bolster the sustainability of sugar production.
He further encouraged smallholders in sugar cane plantations to engage in collaborations with the government for the production of high-yielding variety seeds.
