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 about 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 were the main challenges faced by Bayu Aji Handayanto and other dairy farmers that led to the recent mediation efforts?
**Interview with Bayu Aji Handayanto: Dairy Farmer’s Perspective on Recent Mediation Efforts**
**Editor:** Today, we have the honor of speaking with Bayu Aji Handayanto, a dairy farmer and milk collector from Pasuruan, who recently experienced a pivotal moment for dairy farmers in Indonesia. Thank you for joining us, Bayu.
**Bayu:** Thank you for having me.
**Editor:** Recently, you participated in a significant meeting mediated by the Minister of Agriculture, Andi Amran Sulaiman, to address concerns regarding local milk absorption. Can you share what prompted you to take action prior to this meeting?
**Bayu:** Certainly. We faced a dire situation where local milk prices were dropping significantly, leading us to resort to a protest where we had to throw away milk that could not be sold. It was a heartbreaking decision, but one we felt was necessary to make our voices heard.
**Editor:** It sounds like a very emotional experience. How did you feel when you received news about the meeting and the government’s interest in resolving this issue?
**Bayu:** I was overwhelmed. It felt like, for the first time, we might actually be listened to. When we attended the meeting and the Minister of Agriculture personally acknowledged our struggles, it brought tears to my eyes. I felt a sense of hope and gratitude for the attention given to local farmers like myself.
**Editor:** During the meeting, the government announced a new policy requiring the milk processing industry to prioritize the absorption of local milk. How did this decision impact you and your fellow farmers?
**Bayu:** This decision was a tremendous relief. It felt like our aspirations were finally being recognized. The fact that milk was included in the list of Basic Necessities and Important Goods means better protection for us. It strengthens our position as farmers and secures a more stable livelihood.
**Editor:** It must be reassuring to know the government is taking steps to support you. Can you elaborate on what this means for your future and the future of dairy farming in your community?
**Bayu:** This is just the beginning. With the government’s commitment, we feel more empowered to continue our work. It provides us with confidence to invest in our farms and improve production. We believe this will ultimately lead to better quality products for consumers as well.
**Editor:** You mentioned feeling a connection with the Minister and other officials. Can you describe that feeling and how it has influenced your view of the government’s role?
**Bayu:** It was like having a new father in the world of cattle farming. For so long, we had felt neglected. Now, with the Minister and his team actively listening and engaging with us, there’s a sense of partnership and understanding. It shows us that the government can work for our benefit, and it encourages us to advocate for our rights as farmers.
**Editor:** Great to hear all of this, Bayu. Any final thoughts you’d like to share with other farmers who might be facing similar challenges?
**Bayu:** I encourage all farmers to keep advocating for themselves and to remain hopeful. We have seen that our struggles can lead to positive changes, and it is essential to stay united and vocal about our needs. The government is listening, and we must hold them accountable to support our livelihoods.
**Editor:** Thank you, Bayu, for sharing your insights and experiences with us. Best of luck as you continue your important work in dairy farming.
**Bayu:** Thank you! I appreciate the opportunity to speak about these critical issues.
