MINISTER of Agriculture (Mentan) Andi Amran Sulaiman succeeded in mediating a meeting between dairy farmers and the milk processing industry in an effort to resolve the polemic over local milk absorption.
This quick step by the Ministry of Agriculture was greeted with gratitude and excitement by the farmers.
One of the milk collectors from Pasuruan, Bayu Aji Handayanto, who had staged an action to throw away milk as a form of protest, could not hold back his tears when the farmer’s aspirations were finally heard and responded to by the government.
Bayu was touched by the attention given to the fate of local breeders.
“On behalf of dairy farmers in the villages, I am very touched because today we feel like we have a new father in the world of cattle farming. “Our aspirations were heard by the Minister of Agriculture, and the Minister of State Secretary and the Deputy Minister of Agriculture were also present,” said Bayu after the audience at the Ministry of Agriculture Head Office, Jakarta, Monday (11/11).
During the hearing, the Ministry of Agriculture agreed to a policy requiring the milk processing industry to absorb milk from local farmers. This step is good news for farmers, considering that milk has also been included in the list of Basic Necessities and Important Goods (Bapokting), which will strengthen protection for local farmers.
“Everything went smoothly. We were very moved because our struggle was responded to quickly. Our demands were not only accommodated, but even exceeded our expectations. “Thank you to the government, especially the Minister of Agriculture and Mr President Prabowo,” added Bayu.
Bayu also expressed the farmer’s commitment to improving the quality of local milk.
He said that the quality of the milk they produce meets national standards, although it is still below the quality of imported milk.
“We are committed to improving quality. “The Minister of Agriculture also promised that there would be further guidance from the industry to help improve the quality of domestic milk,” he said.
Previously, a number of farmers and collectors protested due to restrictions on milk absorption by the industry.
Responding to this problem, the Ministry of Agriculture immediately took quick steps by bringing together breeders and industry to find the best solution.
“We hope that industry together with the government will intervene in developing breeders and help improve the quality of domestic milk. “This is in line with President Prabowo Subianto’s vision, who requested that the government be present as a mediator to support joint growth between industry and livestock breeders,” said Minister of Agriculture Amran.
With this mediation, it is hoped that dairy farmers can continue to grow and develop along with industry and government support in improving the quality and competitiveness of local milk. (RO/Z-10)
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What insights did Bayu Aji Handayanto share about his emotional experience during the pivotal meeting with the Minister of Agriculture?
**Interview with Bayu Aji Handayanto, Dairy Farmer from Pasuruan**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Bayu. You recently participated in a pivotal meeting facilitated by Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman regarding the local milk absorption issue. Can you share how you felt during that meeting?
**Bayu:** Thank you for having me. Honestly, it was an emotional experience. When I entered that room, I was filled with hope but also apprehension. Seeing the Minister of Agriculture and other officials there, I felt a wave of gratitude wash over me. They listened to our struggles, and at that moment, I felt like our voices were finally being heard.
**Editor:** You mentioned in your statement that you felt like you had a new father in the world of cattle farming. Can you elaborate on that sentiment?
**Bayu:** Yes, absolutely. For us dairy farmers, it often feels like we are fighting an uphill battle. Having someone like the Minister who is genuinely concerned about our plight makes us feel supported and valued. It’s like having a guardian who looks out for our welfare and advocates for our rights.
**Editor:** The Ministry of Agriculture agreed on a policy requiring the milk processing industry to absorb milk from local farmers. How significant is this policy for you and your fellow farmers?
**Bayu:** This policy is monumental. It not only secures a market for us but also ensures that our hard work is recognized and rewarded. Milk has now been classified as a basic necessity, which further protects us as local farmers. We finally feel like we’re part of the system and that our efforts matter.
**Editor:** You previously protested by throwing away milk. What message were you trying to send at that time, and how do you feel about the outcome now?
**Bayu:** Back then, it was a desperate act—a clear sign of frustration. We were at a breaking point, and we just wanted our voices to be heard. Now, seeing the swift response from the government, I can say it was worth it. Our actions sparked a dialogue that led to real change, and I am filled with hope for the future.
**Editor:** It seems like the government’s quick response was vital in resolving this situation. What are your hopes moving forward?
**Bayu:** My hope is that this is just the beginning. We need continued support and engagement from the government to ensure sustainable practices and benefits for dairy farmers. If this unity continues, I truly believe we can thrive and even expand our dairy farming community.
**Editor:** Thank you, Bayu. Your passion for dairy farming and your fellow farmers is truly inspiring. We look forward to seeing how this situation progresses for you and your colleagues.
**Bayu:** Thank you for covering our story. It’s important for people to understand the struggles we face and the joys of triumphing together.