InfoSAWIT, PEKANBARU – The Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Riau (Unri), in collaboration with the Indonesian Agricultural Economics Association (PERHEPI) Pekanbaru Chapter and Lancang Kuning University (Unilak), successfully held an Agribusiness Studium Generale on Wednesday (February 19). The event, which took place in the Unri Integrated Classroom Hall, was opened by Dr. Shorea Khaswarina, the Vice Dean for Student Affairs, Cooperation, and Alumni of the Faculty of Agriculture.
She stated that this activity serves as a platform to raise awareness and knowledge about the palm oil sector in supporting the downstreaming programs initiated by the government. “Hopefully, from this forum, solutions will emerge to improve the welfare of palm oil farmers,” she said.
As reported by InfoSAWIT from Unri's official website, during the event, Professor Bustanul Arifin, a professor of Agricultural Economics at the University of Lampung (Unila) and the Chairman of PERHEPI 2021-2024, discussed the contribution of palm oil-producing regions to the welfare of farmers in Indonesia. He also emphasized the importance of more effective palm oil plantation management.
Moderated by Dr. Arifudin, Professor Bustanul explained that Indonesia is the largest producer of palm oil in the world. Riau Province, with a production of nearly nine million tons per year, ranks first in Indonesia. However, a lack of awareness in managing palm oil plantations has prevented this significant potential from optimally improving farmers' welfare.
“With such vast resources, we should behave like a great nation,” said Professor Bustanul. He stressed that the government's seriousness in supporting downstreaming must be accompanied by cooperation from all elements of society, including students, to achieve national welfare. “Food self-sufficiency is not the end goal, but a means to create food security,” he added.
Before closing the discussion, Dr. Arifudin shared his views with the attending students. “As the largest palm oil-producing region in Indonesia, Riau should have more researchers in the field of palm oil plantations,” he asserted. It is hoped that through activities like this, students can become more active in research and innovation to enhance productivity and the welfare of palm oil farmers in Indonesia. (T2)
