OKI Leads in Smallholder Palm Oil Rejuvenation
Kayu Agung – Kabupaten Ogan Komering Ilir (OKI) has emerged as the frontrunner in the implementation of smallholder palm oil rejuvenation, setting a record as the largest area for such initiatives in Indonesia.
With an extensive coverage of 27,955 hectares, OKI has become a shining example of successful palm oil plantation rejuvenation.
Another notable achievement lies in the province of South Sumatra, which has achieved the widest realization of the Smallholder Palm Oil Rejuvenation (PSR) program in Indonesia, covering a vast area of 59,329 hectares.
This significant progress has been made possible through the collaborative efforts of 21 provinces that serve as centers for smallholder palm oil rejuvenation.
Extensive Implementation of the PSR Program in OKI and South Sumatra
The success in OKI and South Sumatra can be attributed to the comprehensive implementation of the PSR program.
The program has revolutionized the mindset of palm oil farmers, enabling them to improve productivity and consequently enhance their livelihoods.
The PSR program encompasses rigorous processes, beginning with the selection of superior seeds, optimal planting patterns, and meticulous harvesting practices.
This holistic approach ensures the transformation of unproductive plantations into highly productive ones, paving the way for sustainable growth in the palm oil industry.
Minister of Agriculture Commends the Productivity Transformation in OKI
During the First Harvesting of the Smallholder Palm Oil Rejuvenation Program held in OKI, the Minister of Agriculture, Syahrul Yasin Limpo (SYL), expressed his admiration for the remarkable transformation in productivity achieved by farmers in the region.
He commended their efforts in adopting modern agricultural practices, which have resulted in significant improvements in the overall performance of palm oil plantations.
Minister SYL highlighted the role of OKI as a model for other regions to follow, demonstrating the potential for enhanced national palm oil plantation management.
OKI’s Potential as a Model for National Palm Oil Plantation Management
Building upon the success in OKI, the Minister of Agriculture envisions the region as a benchmark for national palm oil plantation management.
The utilization of agricultural machinery (alsintan) and the expansion of the PSR program will play pivotal roles in this endeavor.
Minister SYL emphasized the importance of palm oil as a vital commodity on the global stage.
To capitalize on this opportunity, the PSR program must be expanded across all regions in Indonesia.
The government has set an ambitious target of expanding the PSR program to cover 180,000 hectares annually in 21 provinces.
Expanding the PSR Program Nationwide: A Government Priority
The government, under the guidance of Minister SYL, is committed to achieving the target of expanding the PSR program nationwide.
Recognizing the significance of palm oil as a strategic asset for the nation, the government aims to ensure its sustainable growth and contribution to the welfare of the people.
The successful implementation of the PSR program in OKI and South Sumatra serves as a testament to the government’s dedication to the palm oil sector’s prosperity.
Successful Inaugural Harvest of Replanted Palm Oil in OKI
The first harvest of replanted palm oil in OKI covered an impressive area of 1,157 hectares. These plantations were initially established in 2020 as part of the rejuvenation efforts.
The harvest marks a significant milestone, symbolizing the tangible results of the PSR program’s implementation.
The event showcased the fruitful collaboration between farmers, local authorities, and the Ministry of Agriculture in achieving sustainable and productive palm oil plantations.
Local Leaders Express Gratitude for Support in Rejuvenating Palm Oil Plantations
The Governor of South Sumatra, Herman Deru, expressed his gratitude for the Ministry of Agriculture’s support in rejuvenating smallholder palm oil plantations in OKI.
He acknowledged the provision of seedlings and the establishment of seed banks and agricultural machinery, which have played a vital role in boosting the region’s palm oil industry.
Local leaders, including Bupati Ogan Komering Ilir H. Iskandar, SE, also appreciated the high utilization of the People’s Business Credit (KUR), amounting to IDR 1,425,120,749,000.
This financial support has contributed to the increased income and improved economic conditions of palm oil farmers in the region.
Revitalizing Thousands of Hectares of Palm Oil Plantations in OKI
The ongoing efforts to rejuvenate palm oil plantations in OKI have been aimed at revitalizing thousands of hectares of land.
This comprehensive approach targets farmers who are members of 26 Village Cooperative Units (KUD) in the Bumi Bende Seguguk area.
With the support and guidance of the Minister of Agriculture and the Governor, OKI aspires to become the largest palm oil rejuvenation region in South Sumatra province.
The collaboration between local authorities and farmers is key to achieving this ambitious goal and ensuring the sustainable growth of the palm oil industry in the region. (dhi)
