Farmers can be regarded as key players in the field who directly impact national resilience. According to Bung Karno, farmers serve as the guardians of Indonesia’s social order. Their role is inseparable from the foundation of agricultural development.
Agriculture refers to the management of biological natural resources with technology, capital, labor, and proper management to produce agricultural commodities—ranging from food crops, horticulture, and plantations to livestock—within a specific agroecosystem.
Farmers have contributed significantly to the national economy through their work in agriculture. According to a report from Indonesia’s Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, the country experienced strong economic growth in the first quarter. Of all sectors, 64.13% of Indonesia’s economy was driven by agriculture, industry, trade, construction, and mining. Notably, agriculture was the only sector to maintain growth, reaching 2.15% year-over-year (YoY).
On paper, agriculture remained resilient even during the COVID-19 pandemic, contributing around US$0.4 billion in exports—approximately 3% of Indonesia’s total exports. The sector saw a 16.2% increase YoY and a 20.8% increase month-to-month (MtM).
However, agricultural growth has also faced frequent contractions. One of the main challenges is declining agricultural productivity, largely due to the shrinking availability of fertile land—driven by expanding residential and industrial zones. This challenge presents an opportunity for younger generations to engage in technology and information transfer, acting as agents of change to support and collaborate with Indonesia’s farmers.
Agricultural Diversification as a Strategic Solution
Agricultural diversification is a promising approach to overcome such challenges. Across Indonesia, many regions have started promoting diversified farming programs to boost agricultural production.
Agricultural diversification is the practice of varying types of agricultural activities or crops to reduce dependence on a single commodity. The main goals are:
- To increase overall agricultural output,
- To meet domestic food and industrial needs, and
- To raise farmers’ incomes.
Benefits of Agricultural Diversification for Farmers
- Increased Income
Diversified farming helps farmers improve their earnings and overall quality of life.
- Better Adaptability
Diversification encourages farmers to explore new opportunities, helping them adapt to future changes and challenges.
- Economic Security
With multiple income sources, farmers can achieve more stable and sustainable livelihoods.
- Preservation of Traditions
While focusing on income and future security, diversification also enables farmers to maintain and subsidize traditional agricultural practices that are culturally valuable.
- New Skills Development
It promotes the development of skills in areas like management, finance, and marketing, while also expanding farmers’ business networks.
Methods of Implementing Crop Diversification
- Crop Rotation or Substitution
Switching from one staple to another—like rice to corn, cassava, sweet potatoes, sago, taro, wheat, or potatoes—can help diversify food sources and reduce dependence on a single staple.
- Multiple Agricultural Activities
Farmers can engage in additional activities, such as poultry or fish farming, alongside traditional crop cultivation.
- Intercropping (Tumpang Sari)
This method involves planting two or more crop types in the same field simultaneously. It helps prevent pest outbreaks and improves soil fertility.
- Agroforestry (Forest-Based Agriculture)
Agroforestry combines agricultural and forestry practices to enhance income. Farmers plant crops among trees in forested areas, gaining short-term yields without waiting for timber harvests.
Examples of Agricultural Products and Their Uses
- Rice – Staple food
- Corn – Livestock feed
- Soybeans – Used for tempeh, tofu, soy milk, soy sauce
- Cabbage – Source of vitamins and side dish
- Wheat – Bread production
- Chayote – Nutritious food source
- Chili peppers – Raw material for sauces and condiments
- Shallots – Culinary ingredient
- Peanuts – Used in snacks like rempeyek
- Tuber crops – Base for chips, cakes, snacks
- Cloves – Natural throat pain reliever
- Ginger – Boosts immune system
And many more.