Prabowo: Only in Indonesia Do the Military, Police Manage Agriculture

Prabowo: Only in Indonesia Do the Military and Police Oversee Agriculture

Prabowo – At the conclusion of the 17th National Farmers and Fishermen’s Week (PENAS KTNA XVII) in Gorontalo Regency on June 24, President Prabowo Subianto highlighted the unique role of Indonesia’s security forces in national development. He noted that the military and police have expanded their duties beyond defense and security, now playing a key part in food production initiatives.

Security Forces in Agricultural Roles

“In Indonesia alone, the police oversee agricultural activities,” Prabowo stated during his address, which was streamed live on the Presidential Secretariat’s YouTube channel. “You’ll find the military working in the fields. The Navy plants soybeans. The Air Force grows sugarcane. This is unique to our nation.”

The government’s strategy includes integrating the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and National Police (Polri) into programs aimed at enhancing food security. These institutions support initiatives like the new rice field development program and have been active in implementing the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) initiative. Through affiliated foundations, they also help establish Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG), often referred to as MBG kitchens.

Broader Participation in Food Sectors

Prabowo further emphasized the military’s involvement in selecting managers for the Red and White Village Cooperatives, a government-led project. The TNI also provides foundational training to prospective cooperative leaders, ensuring their preparedness for agricultural management roles.

Despite some concerns about security forces taking on civilian responsibilities, Prabowo framed their participation as a strategic move. “This is why Indonesia will rise,” he said. “We will become a great nation,” he added, underscoring the potential benefits of this approach.

Officials Recognized for Food Security Efforts

Prabowo acknowledged the contributions of several officials, including Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan, Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman, Marine Affairs and Fisheries Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto, and National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo.

As Indonesia works toward self-sufficiency in food and energy, the growing involvement of military and police in agriculture, distribution, and social programs has sparked public interest. The government’s reliance on these institutions in such sectors continues to draw attention, highlighting their dual role in national security and economic growth.