Indonesia's ministries launch empowerment-driven agricultural plan to cut poverty

In Jakarta, Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Muhaimin Iskandar met with Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman to announce a coordinated empowerment program aimed at eradicating poverty. The plan focuses on developing high-value commodities—especially chili, cassava, poultry and coconut—and integrating downstream processing, packaging and marketing to add value. Authorities will target 88 districts and cities, selecting pilot sites based on regional potential, local demand and budget availability.

Officials emphasized that the initiative aligns with President Prabowo Subianto’s policy of reducing reliance on government subsidies and fostering self-sufficient businesses. The ministries intend to create a seamless ecosystem linking farmers, processors and buyers to ensure guaranteed off-taking and market relevance. Success will be measured by higher incomes and sustainable economic activity in the selected areas.