Dairy Farmers Moved, Minister of Agriculture Amran Responds Quickly to Milk Polemic”/>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 are the main challenges currently faced by dairy farmers in Indonesia?
### Interview with Bayu Aji Handayanto, Dairy Farmer and Advocate
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Bayu. We’ve seen a lot of activity recently regarding the issues faced by dairy farmers in Indonesia. Can you tell us about your experience at the recent meeting with the Minister of Agriculture?
**Bayu Aji Handayanto:** Thank you for having me. That day was incredibly emotional for us. After months of struggling and protests, including the extreme act of discarding milk, we felt completely unheard. But during the meeting, it was like we finally had someone listen to our plight. We were overwhelmed with gratitude.
**Editor:** It sounds like the response from the government was very positive. What specific commitments were made to support dairy farmers like yourself?
**Bayu:** Yes, the Minister of Agriculture, Andi Amran Sulaiman, assured us that a policy would be implemented requiring milk processing companies to absorb milk from local farmers. This is monumental for us! It means more stability and respect for our hard work. Additionally, milk has been recognized as a Basic Necessity, which will enhance our protection as farmers.
**Editor:** You mentioned that this felt like having a ”new father” in the world of cattle farming. What did you mean by that?
**Bayu:** It’s about feeling supported and valued. For a long time, we felt overlooked, but now we have the assurance that our voices are being heard. It’s heartwarming to know that people in positions of power are advocating for our well-being. The presence of the Minister and his staff showed us that they genuinely care about the future of dairy farming in our villages.
**Editor:** That’s a powerful sentiment. How do you think this change will impact the future of dairy farming in Indonesia?
**Bayu:** If implemented effectively, this policy could lead to a transformation in our industry. It not only provides us with a secure market but also restores hope among young farmers to stay in the profession. When farmers feel valued and protected, they are more likely to invest in their farms and communities.
**Editor:** Is there anything you’d like to say to other dairy farmers who may be feeling discouraged?
**Bayu:** I want them to know that change is possible. Action, such as speaking up and uniting, is essential. We must continue to advocate for our rights and not give up. Our recent victory shows that when we stand together, we can make our voices heard.
**Editor:** Thank you so much for sharing your insights, Bayu. It’s inspiring to hear about your journey and the potential for a brighter future for dairy farmers.
**Bayu:** Thank you for having me. I hope we keep moving forward together.
