President Prabowo Praises Innovation of Coal-Based Fertilizer

RRI.CO.ID, Tuban - President Prabowo Subianto praised the innovation of fertilizer made from low-calorie coal, calling it a major achievement for Indonesia’s youth.

“In my opinion, this is a miracle. We can produce fertilizer from our low-calorie coal. It will be extraordinary when mixed with the NPK we commonly use, and if possible, combined with innovative plant-based alternatives as well,” President Prabowo said during the groundbreaking ceremony for 10 Police Food Security Warehouses and the launch of operations for 166 Police Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) for 2026 in Tuban Regency, East Java, on Saturday, May 16, 2026.

The President stressed that Indonesia must reduce its dependence on imported fertilizer, making innovation essential. He explained that self-sufficiency in fertilizer would strengthen the country’s food sector.

“Once we break free from dependence on foreign fertilizer, we will become truly strong. And I would like to see this excellent concept implemented,” he said.

President Prabowo also commended the innovation of turning corn cobs into charcoal briquettes, describing it as a major breakthrough. He said the emergence of such innovations demonstrates that Indonesia has creative and innovative human resources who persevere in the face of challenges.

“You are close to the people, close to the universities, close to the engineers and scholars. That is why you know. This is extraordinary,” he remarked.

In the future, the Red and White Cooperative will distribute both charcoal briquettes and coal-based fertilizer, ensuring that the energy and food needs of rural communities are met through these innovations.

The President emphasized that innovations in the food and energy sectors are vital to strengthening national resilience amid a global crisis. He noted that many countries are racing to secure energy and food because they are strategic needs.

“Food is strategic. Whatever you do to secure and increase our food production means you are securing our future, our sovereignty,” President Prabowo said. (Gusti Panji)