RRI.CO.ID, Lombok Timur - The Indonesian Agriculture Minister, Andi Amran Sulaiman, conducted a working visit to East Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), on Monday, February 9, 2026. The visit marked the official launch of a strategic garlic development program aimed at achieving national self-sufficiency.

During the event, the Minister commended the swift response of the NTB Governor and the East Lombok Regent in addressing national food security needs, specifically regarding garlic commodities. 

The government has officially designated NTB as a national garlic production hub, with a land management target of 25,000 to 50.000 hectares. This strategic move is designed to supply other provinces while simultaneously ending the country's dependence on imports.

"Our target is to halt imports within the next three to five years. For national self-sufficiency, we only require 100,000 hectares across the country. Considering we successfully managed 7.4 million hectares of paddy fields, 100,000 hectares is a manageable task. I am confident the Governor can complete this mission," said the Minister. 

Minister Sulaiman also highlighted the promising yields in NTB, which average 20 tons per hectare, with some areas reaching up to 28 tons. Furthermore, he noted that the quality of NTB's local garlic far exceeds that of imported products. 

"The quality is excellent, surpassing imported goods. This is why we are concentrating our government programs here," he explained.

To support this initiative, the Agriculture Ministry will launch a specialized program fully funded by the State Budget. This includes the provision of seeds and post-harvest guarantees for farmers through the establishment of a Government Purchase Price (HPP). 

"The state will provide the guarantee. We will establish an HPP to maintain price stability. Our objective is clear: no farmer should suffer a loss," asserted the Minister.

He further emphasized the necessity of an integrated system linking feed availability, the livestock sector, and corn price stability as the foundation of regional food security. Addressing Agricultural Field Extension officers (PPL), the Minister urged them to shift their mindsets and lead by example. 

"Do not ask what the country can do for you, but think about what you can do for the country. A PPL can become a Minister, Governor, or Regent if they are willing to work hard," he said.

According to him, the greatest challenge lies in changing mindsets; however, once the mindset shifts, the future follows. "This nation will prosper if we say 'ready' and act immediately without excessive protest. Let us move together to build NTB and the Republic of Indonesia."

During the visit, the Minister inspected garlic drying floors and cultivation areas. He was welcomed by the NTB Governor, the Regent of East Lombok, and PPL officers from across Lombok Island. The Minister also engaged in a dialogue with local farmers, providing immediate solutions to various challenges faced in the field. (Annaila Azzahra/Bambang MBKA)