MEMBER of the Indonesian Regional Leadership Council (DPD) Commission II for Agriculture, Alfiansyah Bustami, or Komeng paid a working visit to Babakan Pala, Sukamenak Village, Kawalu District, Tasikmalaya City, West Java. During the visit he received complaints from dozens of farmers regarding fertilizer supplies, limited irrigation water supplies, and the conversion of productive land into housing.
Dozens of farmers who met with Komeng are members of the Tani Merdeka Indonesia (TMI) Tasikmalaya City. Unlike visits by senators and members of parliament in general which have a stiff and serious tone, Komeng’s interactions with the farmers were accompanied by jokes and laughter.
With his comedic style, Komeng still tries to accommodate the aspirations and complaints of farmers. Even though he initially had reservations about being assigned to Commission II in the agricultural sector, in fact Komeng seemed quite knowledgeable and competent in discussing the agricultural sector and was able to understand the aspirations of the farmers.
“We have contacted the National Food Agency (Bapanas), not that the father is hot, the mother is cold. And indeed the budget can help farmers. However, we can only propose that the ministers meet with the farmers, including us to make other efforts and coordinate with the Lines “The size of the National Policy (GBHN) is not the size of the longitude, he said,” he said, Wednesday (6/11).
Komeng said he would try to ensure that the government takes sides with farmers and livestock breeders.
“Actually, the complaints from farmers and breeders are about lack of attention to market potential. Now 80% of the eggs are imported from Blitar, they still send them to the Tasikmalaya City area. Now there needs to be training. The government’s policy will be discussed with the ministry,” he said.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the DPD Tani Merdeka Indonesia Tasikmalaya City, Nandang Suryana, said that his party was happy to be able to meet directly with members of the DPD Commission II for Agriculture and hoped that Komeng could fight for solutions to farmers’ various difficulties. Because, one of the crucial things is that meeting agricultural water needs, including repairing damaged irrigation infrastructure, is the government’s authority.
“Farmers have many complaints, starting with irrigation water, fertilizer not being on target, seeds, productive land being turned into housing, sprays and we hope that the government will be present to be more serious about fixing this problem. Because, up to now, eggs have to come from Blitar, beef cattle from “Lampung, vegetables are sent from Garut, Majalaya, and fish only from Cirata,” he explained. (AD/J-3)
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**Interview with Alfiansyah Bustami Komeng, Member of the Indonesian Regional Leadership Council (DPD) Commission II for Agriculture**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Komeng. You recently visited farmers in Tasikmalaya City. Can you share your primary observations from this visit?
**Komeng:** Thank you for having me! My visit to Babakan Pala highlighted some pressing issues that farmers are facing. There are notable concerns about fertilizer supplies, limited irrigation, and the alarming conversion of productive agricultural land into housing. It’s clear that these challenges need immediate attention.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned your interaction with the farmers was more light-hearted compared to other political visits. Why do you think humor is essential in such discussions?
**Komeng:** Humor can break the ice and create a comfortable atmosphere. Farming is hard work, and sometimes, a little laughter can ease frustrations. It helps build trust and opens the door for a more honest conversation about their challenges and aspirations. I want farmers to feel they can speak freely.
**Interviewer:** During your discussions, did you find any solutions that could be implemented to help the farmers?
**Komeng:** We’ve already reached out to the National Food Agency (Bapanas) for support. I’m confident that with better coordination, we can allocate a budget that directly assists farmers. It’s about ensuring they have the resources they need to thrive.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned initially having reservations about being in the agriculture sector. Do you feel more prepared now?
**Komeng:** Absolutely. The visit connected me deeply with the issues at hand. Listening to farmers firsthand has equipped me with valuable insights. I may not have been a farm expert at first, but my commitment to serving these communities has only grown stronger.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences, Komeng. We appreciate your efforts in addressing farmers’ needs.
**Komeng:** Thank you! It’s my duty, and I look forward to continuing this important work for our farmers.
