A group of Suku Anak Dalam (SAD) women proudly walked home, joyfully carrying their harvest of long beans and cucumbers. Despite the weight, their smiles radiated happiness. These crops symbolize their bright future of economic and food independence, reflecting their hard work and determination. It’s inspiring to witness their journey toward self-sufficiency!

The thriving crops cultivated by the Suku Anak Dalam (SAD) are a testament to the supportive partnership with PT Sari Aditya Loka (SAL), a subsidiary of the Astra Agro Lestari Group in Jambi. It’s inspiring to see that many SAD members are embarking on a journey to embrace farming and agriculture in their lifestyles.

While this transition presents challenges, particularly due to their nomadic heritage and reliance on forest resources, PT SAL is committed to facilitating a smoother adjustment. Through the Agriculture Learning Centre (ALC) program, known as Suluh Rimbo, the organization is eager to offer tailored support to meet the specific needs of the SAD community. This initiative aims to ensure a positive and sustainable agricultural future for everyone involved.

Suluh Rimbo serves as a learning center for 40 SAD families, providing training in crop cultivation techniques. The goal of this initiative is to promote food self-sufficiency and create alternative income sources through agricultural commodities.

The company supports the program by providing agricultural infrastructure, including seeds, fertilizers, and equipment, as well as enhancing the skills of the Suluh Rimbo farmer groups in crop cultivation. The Suluh Rimbo farmer group is divided into two sub-groups: Suluh Rimbo Air Panas and Suluh Rimbo Sikar.

In the first quarter of 2024, Suluh Rimbo Sikar successfully harvested 270 kg of long beans and 300 kg of cucumbers. Additionally, preparations are underway for the planting of curly chilies. Suluh Rimbo Sikar has made significant progress since the start of the program, with members becoming more aware of best agricultural practices and understanding how food crop production can meet their family’s dietary needs. During this period, Suluh Rimbo Air Panas, managed by the Rimba Tani group, also achieved successful harvests of various crops, including loofah, chili, and water spinach (ikat kangkong).

The Rimba Tani Group is excited to be preparing land for cultivating corn, lemongrass, cassava, and gambas! They’ve made impressive strides in technical farm management, mastering crop rotation techniques that adapt to environmental conditions. This thoughtful approach not only ensures flourishing plant growth but also empowers them to choose the best crops for their needs, driving a sustainable and fruitful future!

Hydroponic Plant Cultivation by Karang Taruna Group of Bungintimbe

Both the SAD community and the Bungintimbe Karang Taruna (Youth Group) in Bungintimbe, North Morowali, have benefited from Astra Agro’s farming coaching. The youth group successfully established a partnership with a nearby mining company to sell hydroponic vegetables. According to the agreement, they are required to supply 200 kg of vegetables each week. To help increase their production capacity, PT ANA (Agro Nusa Abadi), a subsidiary group of Astra Agro provided assistance with land development, heavy equipment, and production infrastructure.

The North Morowali Agriculture and Food Agency has partnered with a dedicated company to provide innovative hydroponic greenhouse packages, fostering exciting new opportunities in our community. Recently, the Karang Taruna group and the company visited the hydroponic team at Kolonodale Penitentiary to discuss a potential collaboration as a vegetable supplier, paving the way for significant positive change.

This initiative could generate an impressive monthly income of IDR 12 million from vegetable sales, benefiting various stakeholders while earning recognition from the North Morowali Agriculture Office and fellow hydroponic groups. Additionally, the company’s coaching program for local farmers not only bolsters food security but also opens doors for economic growth and collaboration in the region. Together, we’re nurturing a brighter, more prosperous future!