InfoSAWIT, JAKARTA – The Indonesian government is stepping up efforts to safeguard farmers' personal data while promoting supply chain transparency through the National Dashboard system, specifically targeting the palm oil industry. According to Diah Suradireja, Expert Staff to the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, the system aims to provide farmers with official recognition of their work and facilitate data access for exporters and international partners.
Diah highlighted the critical role of transparent data in integrating farmers and exporters into global supply chains. Through the National Dashboard, exporters will receive a "token" from operators, enabling them to trace supply chains and verify product quality. “With the National Dashboard, every product reaching Europe or other markets can be traced back to its source, allowing international partners to verify its origin and quality,” Diah explained during a seminar in late October 2024 in Jakarta.
However, Diah acknowledged the challenges on the ground, particularly regarding farmers' reluctance to share personal data. Many farmers worry that sensitive information, such as ID cards, National Identification Numbers (NIK), and Cultivation Registration Certificates (STDB), might be misused.
To address these concerns, the Ministry of Agriculture has intensified efforts to educate farmers on the importance of STDB. This certification provides legal certainty for farmers and is essential for their inclusion in the palm oil export supply chain.
“The Ministry of Agriculture has been actively engaging with farmers, assuring them that STDB is their right and that the application process is free of charge. These steps are taken to build trust and ensure farmers feel secure in sharing their data with the government, which is committed to protecting it,” Diah stated.
To further safeguard farmers' data, third-party entities are involved in the data collection process. These intermediaries, collaborating with the government, act solely as conduits, handing over data to the government without full access to the information. “The data collected is directly transferred to the government, ensuring that farmers’ information remains protected,” she added.
Through enhanced education and data transparency initiatives, the government aims to boost farmers' bargaining power in international markets. Official recognition through STDB not only secures farmers' rights but also solidifies their position in the supply chain.
This initiative marks a significant step forward for Indonesia’s palm oil sector, ensuring that farmers receive their due rights while enhancing the transparency, sustainability, and credibility of the country’s exports on the global stage. (T2)
