Strengthening Indonesia’s Food Ecosystem: A Call for Government-Business Synergy

Jakarta Pushes for Stronger Food Ecosystem Through Government-Business Synergy

Jakarta (ANTARA) – In a bold move to enhance Indonesia’s food security, Arief Prasetyo Adi, Head of the National Food Agency (Bapanas), underscored the critical need for collaboration between the government and the business sector. Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Arief highlighted the “Indonesia Incorporated” concept as a vital framework for creating a robust and sustainable national food ecosystem.

“The concept of Indonesia Incorporated is highly relevant to the food sector. By uniting the strengths of government, businesses, and the community, we can build an efficient, fair, and resilient food supply chain from upstream to downstream,” Arief stated, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in addressing food challenges.

This initiative, championed by President Prabowo Subianto, aims to unify governmental and business efforts to foster broad-based prosperity for all Indonesians. Arief pointed out that medium and large enterprises play a strategic role in uplifting micro and small businesses, particularly those in underserved communities.

Key government programs, such as the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) initiative and the strengthening of Red-and-White Village Cooperative Networks, hinge on substantial private sector support. “We encourage the private sector to become active partners in strengthening local food production, processing, and distribution. This will help ensure that all segments of society have access to nutritious, high-quality food at affordable prices,” he added.

Arief, who also chairs the Food Committee at the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN), reaffirmed Bapanas’s commitment to collaborating with KADIN and other private sector actors to ensure food availability, affordability, and price stability across the nation.

Echoing these sentiments, KADIN Indonesia Chairman Anindya Bakrie reiterated the organization’s dedication to serving as a strategic partner to the government in bolstering national food security and sovereignty. “President Prabowo’s message has deeply resonated with us, motivating KADIN to step up efforts in supporting those who are small and left behind. We view the food sector as a key driver for accelerating economic growth and improving public welfare,” Anindya stated.

He further expressed KADIN’s readiness to collaborate closely with Bapanas to strengthen the national food supply chain, foster innovation, and promote the development of local food products.

As Indonesia navigates the complexities of food security, the synergy between government and business could pave the way for a more resilient and equitable food system, ensuring that no one is left behind in the quest for nutritional access and economic growth.