UMM and Indonesian Air Force Synergy: Building Sustainable Food Security Strategies

Author : Humas | Monday, December 16, 2024 09:13 WIB

UMM Collaborates with the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) to Host a Food Security Seminar and Sign a Joint Declaration on Food Security (Photo: Special)

University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) collaborates with the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) to host a food security seminar and sign a joint declaration on food resilience. The collaboration, held on December 16 at Rayz UMM, carried the theme “Regional Capacity in Supporting Food Security and Nutrition Programs.”

The agenda aims to identify solutions and strategies for food security to support the national program toward Indonesia Emas 2045. Regarding this collaboration, the Assistant for Aerospace Potential to the Chief of Staff of the Air Force, Air Vice Marshal Andi Wijaya, emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration in addressing food security issues. According to him, food security is not the sole responsibility of one party but requires synergy from all elements of the nation. He also highlighted that although the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) will not act as the primary actor, it will play a role in protecting and securing the national agricultural system.

“Food security is a crucial issue that cannot be resolved by a single party. It requires a harmonious orchestration where all stakeholders, including the military, academics, and the government, play strategic roles. Together, we must act as conductors who can direct the nation's potential toward collective prosperity. The Air Force (TNI AU) may not be farmers, but we can contribute to the agricultural system as part of securing and protecting national resources,” he explained.

On the other hand, the keynote presentation was delivered by Diyan Anggraini from PT Thara Jaya Niaga. She is known for her extensive experience in agricultural management and food product downstreaming. She discussed critical topics related to farmers' welfare as the foundation of food security, as well as how innovation can maximize the economic potential of agriculture through sustainable management.

"Food security cannot be achieved without the welfare of farmers. Farmer regeneration must be ensured through increased income and the utilization of agricultural product downstreaming. This requires a well-established ecosystem from upstream to downstream," she stated.

Furthermore, she emphasized the importance of utilizing agricultural production residues to create economic value. For instance, Thailand and Vietnam have successfully maximized the potential of rice bran and husk residues to generate additional economic value. Through this approach, their commodities have become more competitive in the global market.

Meanwhile, UMM Rector Prof. Dr. Nazarudin Malik expressed UMM's commitment to actively supporting food security through organic agricultural innovation and the empowerment of local farmers. He hopes that the collaboration between UMM and the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) can continue sustainably.

"With a 165-hectare cultivated area focused on organic farming, we have proven that universities can serve as a driving force for farmer welfare and the creation of sustainable food security. Through the signing of this cooperation agreement, we hope to establish a synergy that can bring sustainable benefits in supporting national food independence and the vision of Indonesia Emas 2045," he concluded. (vin/wil/ind)

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