Discussion on Editorial of Media Indonesia at IPB
Indonesia is known as a country rich in natural resources, but this does not reflect in the current reality. Most of food sufficiency in Indonesia still relies on imports from other countries. Government of Indonesia after reforms is considered as having no focus on dealing with agriculture in Indonesia. This was the statement by Director of Metro TV News Coverage, who is also an alumnus of IPB, Suryopratomo in the discussion “Editorial Media Indonesia Goes to Campus on the theme "Rich Country with Highly Vulnerable Food Insecurity” held by the Media Group in the Auditorium of Andi Hakim Nasoetion, Darmaga campus of IPB, (14/3).
Furthermore, according to Suryopratomo it is evident that currently about 100 thousand farmlands of number-one quality have turned into housing area. And, agricultural researches do not develop agriculture as well as there is lack of opportunities or incentives to farmers to engage in the field of agriculture.
The Government initially wanted to transform by strengthening the industry but ignoring the agricultural sector. On the contrary, according to him, the developed countries are very serious at managing agricultural sector, for example China. Currently China has been able to feed its people from the farm produce.
Tommy (the friendly name for Suryopratomo) said, it’s time for Indonesia to turn back to its national identity, i.e. the nation with the majority of its people living on agriculture.
The discussion on the Editorial of Media Indonesia going to campus is a regular activity of expanding the Editorial of Media Indonesia on Television Stations but it is brought to the public spaces such as universities.
The event was welcomed by IPB Rector, Prof. Herry Suhardiyanto. According to him, the concern about food is important. This is in line with the discipline of science engaged by IPB. IPB is thankful to be part of the international world that plays a role in delivering a solution of meeting the needs for food. IPB Rector also hopes the students can contribute ideas and solutions for the community.
