Indonesia’s agricultural sector is experiencing a significant transformation, with modern farming technology boosting productivity by 30–50%, according to the Ministry of Agriculture. The adoption of advanced machinery, digital monitoring tools, and precision equipment is enhancing efficiency, improving crop quality, and opening new market opportunities for farmers.
Harsono, Supervisor of Agricultural Machinery and Equipment at the Center for Agricultural Machine Assembly and Modernization (BRMP Mektan), emphasized that technology is vital for achieving food resilience and global competitiveness.
“If all stakeholders collaborate, then the vision of national agriculture toward efficiency, productivity, with global competitiveness can be made true,” Harsono stated during a focus group discussion in Bandung, West Java.
He noted that modernization should be part of strategies to optimize yields in rice, corn, and horticulture, alongside supportive regulations to strengthen farmers’ livelihoods. Digital tools, he added, not only cut production costs and labor needs but also improve market access.
Local startups are playing an increasingly pivotal role in this agricultural revolution. Malik Khidir, Chairperson of the Indonesian Industrial Robotics Association (ASRII) and CEO of PT Stechoq Robotika Indonesia, highlighted their agility and innovative edge.
His company has developed Internet of Things (IoT) modules for agricultural machines and collaborated with the government on initiatives like the Indonesia Manufacturing Center (IMC).
“Startups can fill gaps that have long been overlooked by conventional research and development,” Khidir explained.
Experts believe that with continued innovation, collaboration, and regulatory support, Indonesia can solidify its position as a global agricultural leader while ensuring national food security and better incomes for farmers.
