Food security key to economic transformation: deputy minister

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Food security is the cornerstone of Indonesia's economic transformation agenda under President Prabowo Subianto, Deputy Agriculture Minister Sudaryono said, citing its role in welfare, stability and national self-reliance.

He made the remarks while opening the National Working Meeting of the Indonesia Raya Christian Movement (GEKIRA) in Jakarta on Friday, June 12.

According to a statement released on Saturday, Sudaryono said the food sector holds a strategic position in Prabowo's development agenda because of its direct impact on the economy and society.

"Food security is not only about producing rice or agricultural commodities. It is about national sovereignty," Sudaryono said.

He said the government is implementing measures to strengthen food security, including raising agricultural output, optimizing land use, modernizing farming and expanding irrigation infrastructure.

Sudaryono also stressed Prabowo's commitment to prioritizing public interests in policymaking.

He said the government is pursuing reforms to curb long-standing state losses caused by corruption, budget irregularities, over-invoicing and transfer pricing practices.

"When the government improves the system and closes loopholes for malpractice, some parties will naturally feel affected," he said.

However, he said such reforms are essential to building a cleaner, more effective government that better serves the public interest.

Sudaryono also urged GEKIRA members to help communicate government policies and programs to the public.

"We must explain the benefits and objectives of current policies so people can better understand the direction of national development," he said.

GEKIRA Chairman Nikson Silalahi said the 2026 National Working Meeting serves as a strategic forum to align the organization's programs with the government's national development agenda.

Related news: Indonesia's record 5.3M-ton rice stocks strengthen food security

Related news: Indonesia eyes egg distribution through food aid program

Translator: Benardy Ferdiansyah, Raka Adji

Editor: Rahmad Nasution

Copyright © ANTARA 2026