As a lover of all things culinary or simply someone who appreciates a good meal (let’s be honest, who doesn’t?), you understand the importance of a reliable and consistent food source. This is exactly what Prabowo Subianto, the second candidate for the next President of Indonesia, is striving for. He firmly believes that the key to Indonesia’s food security lies in a grand project known as the food estate, a vision he credits to Ibnu Sutowo in the 1970s.

At a recent gathering in Jakarta, Prabowo passionately shared how the food estate project has positively impacted many farmers, elevating their livelihoods and boosting their incomes. He didn’t hold back in criticising those who oppose the food estate, branding them as “neoliberal” individuals who prefer to import rice rather than support local production.

Prabowo fears the dire consequences of relying on rice imports, especially if rice-producing nations decide to close off their export channels to preserve their own supply. “If they refuse to sell, what will we eat?” he provocatively questioned during the event.

But Prabowo’s perspective extends beyond mere economics and politics. He perceives food and agriculture as matters of life and death for the nation. He firmly believes that the food estate project will inspire the younger generation to continue their parents’ legacy and view farming as a prosperous and esteemed profession.

However, not everyone shares Prabowo’s enthusiasm for the food estate project. Anies Baswedan, the rival Presidential candidate, has highlighted the shortcomings of the cassava food estate project in Kalimantan, led by Prabowo. This project led to the clearing of vast forested areas in Gunung Mas, Central Kalimantan, causing environmental harm and inevitable flooding in nearby communities. To compound matters, the cassava crops did not thrive as expected.

As Indonesia prepares for the 2024 Presidential Election, it’s evident that the debate surrounding the food estate project will remain a contentious topic. With the campaign season in full swing and the voting day scheduled for February 14, all eyes will be fixed on the candidates’ visions for food security and the future of agriculture in Indonesia.

So, what are your thoughts on the food estate project? Do you believe it’s the ultimate answer to Indonesia’s food security, or do you feel there are better alternatives? As the voices of the people, we hold the power to shape our nation’s sustenance. Let’s continue this conversation and influence the future of our food sustainability!