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 challenges did Bayu Aji Handayanto face before the recent mediation with the milk processing industry?
**Interview with Bayu Aji Handayanto, Dairy Farmer from Pasuruan**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us, Bayu. We just heard about the recent mediation between dairy farmers and the milk processing industry. Can you tell us more about how this experience has been for you?
**Bayu Aji Handayanto:** Thank you for having me. This experience has been incredibly emotional for all of us. As a dairy farmer, I felt unheard for so long. When I staged the protest by throwing away milk, it was a desperate measure to bring attention to our plight. But today, I couldn’t hold back my tears when I saw the government actually listening to our concerns.
**Editor:** It sounds like the meeting was quite impactful. What specific changes did the Ministry of Agriculture agree to that made you feel this way?
**Bayu:** The Ministry agreed to implement a policy requiring the milk processing industry to absorb all the milk produced by local farmers like us. This is not just a relief; it’s a lifeline. Additionally, with milk being categorized as a Basic Necessity and Important Good, we finally feel that we have some protection. It’s a huge step forward for us.
**Editor:** You mentioned feeling like you have a “new father” in the world of cattle farming. Can you elaborate on what you meant by that?
**Bayu:** Yes, when I said that, I meant it in terms of support and advocacy. Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman and other officials made us feel valued and acknowledged our struggles. They didn’t just listen; they acted. It really feels like we have a champion in our corner now—someone who understands the struggles we face and is willing to fight for us.
**Editor:** How do you think this mediation will impact the future of dairy farming in your region?
**Bayu:** I believe it will have a significant positive impact. With a government that is now invested in our welfare, we’re hopeful for better stability in the industry. This could encourage more people to remain in dairy farming rather than abandoning it due to financial pressures. In the long run, it could strengthen local agriculture and improve the livelihoods of farmers.
**Editor:** That is indeed encouraging to hear, Bayu. What message do you have for your fellow farmers who may still be feeling uncertain?
**Bayu:** I want to tell them to hold on and keep pushing for their rights. It’s easy to feel hopeless, especially when fighting for change can seem daunting. But today proves that when we come together and raise our voices, we can make a difference. Our struggles were heard, and I encourage everyone to stay united and support each other.
**Editor:** Thank you, Bayu, for sharing your heartfelt story and insights. We wish you and your fellow farmers the best as you move forward.
**Bayu:** Thank you very much! I appreciate the opportunity to share our journey.
