Meanwhile, of the target to develop 22 ha of food bowl in North Sumatra, 7 ha has been realized. “This assignment was given to the regent of Humbang Hasundutan as the person in charge in accordance with the decree of the coordinating maritime affairs minister. However, as it has greater potential, the agriculture ministry will be involved,” said Airlangga.
In East Nusa Tenggara, the government has earmarked the regency of Belu, Central Sumba, and East Sumba for corn and sorghum cultivation.
“559 ha has been prepared for corn cultivation in Belu, 10,000 ha in Central Sumba and 1,000 ha in East Sumba for sorghum. The government is working to ensure the availability of water and fertilizer,” he said.
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In Papua, the government is developing food estates in Merauke and Keerom. “In Merauke, it can reach 1 million ha, while in Keerom around 3,000 ha,” he concluded. (rr)