kamiagronusantara.com, Selangor Malaysia-The strategic partnership between Indonesia and Malaysia in the agribusiness sector, formulated through the AgroMadani Nusantara Network Workshop, is projected to bring tangible benefits to both nations. This collaboration includes key commodities such as Cilembu sweet potatoes, moringa, and seaweed, which are seen as having significant potential to improve farmer welfare, expand export markets, and strengthen food security within the ASEAN region.

Boosting Farmers’ Income through Cilembu Sweet Potato Exports

One of the immediate benefits of this collaboration is the increase in income for Indonesian farmers, especially Cilembu sweet potato growers. PT Jagat Alas Abadi has secured an agreement to supply Cilembu sweet potatoes to 10 outlets in Malaysia. Known for their sweet taste, these potatoes will find a new market abroad, increasing export volumes and providing a significant economic impact for local farmers.

As demand continues to rise, Cilembu sweet potato farmers will not only benefit financially but also be encouraged to improve their productivity and product quality. This collaboration will introduce the unique taste of Indonesian products to Malaysian consumers, opening doors for other Indonesian agricultural exports.

Developing High-Value Moringa Products

Another commodity set to benefit from this collaboration is moringa, widely known for its health benefits. Indonesia's PT Pancaran Sinar Berkah has partnered with Malaysian counterparts to boost production and develop moringa-based products such as powders, teas, and supplements.

This partnership is expected to open new markets for moringa-based products in the ASEAN region. These value-added products will not only offer economic benefits to farmers and business players but also strengthen Indonesia and Malaysia’s positions as leading producers of moringa, both regionally and internationally. By fostering product innovation, the economic value of moringa will increase, creating job opportunities and stimulating the health and food industries in both countries.

Sustainable Seaweed Farming

In the fisheries sector, the collaboration in seaweed farming using polyculture systems will provide both ecological and economic benefits. Indonesia’s Koperasi Mina Agar Mamur will initiate seaweed farming projects in Malaysia. This polyculture system is considered more efficient as it allows for optimal and environmentally friendly use of aquatic land.

The seaweed produced will be processed into various high-value products, including agar-agar, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical raw materials. The environmental sustainability of this system is an added advantage, as seaweed farming helps absorb carbon dioxide, thus supporting climate change mitigation efforts.

Strengthening ASEAN Food Security and Product Competitiveness

This collaboration also focuses on improving regional food security. By combining resources and technology, Indonesia and Malaysia can strengthen more efficient and sustainable food production. Knowledge exchange on modern farming techniques, such as drip irrigation systems and organic fertilizers, will help increase agricultural productivity in both countries.

Moreover, the establishment of a joint marketing network within the ASEAN region will provide broader access to premium agricultural products from Indonesia and Malaysia. A stronger distribution network will enable products such as Cilembu sweet potatoes, moringa, and seaweed to compete in global markets, opening up greater export opportunities and enhancing the competitiveness of ASEAN agricultural products on the international stage.

Enhancing Farmers’ and Business Owners’ Capacities

Another tangible benefit of this collaboration is the enhancement of the capacities of farmers and business owners in both countries. Planned training programs will offer new skills in business management, the application of modern agricultural technology, and marketing strategies. With improved skills, farmers will be better equipped to compete in an increasingly competitive market while adopting more efficient and environmentally friendly farming practices.

Conclusion: Long-Term Benefits

The agribusiness partnership between Indonesia and Malaysia not only offers short-term benefits such as increased income and expanded markets but also lays the foundation for long-term growth in the agricultural sectors of both countries. Through the development of key products, capacity building, and technology exchange, this collaboration is expected to strengthen ASEAN's position as a major player in global agribusiness and create broader prosperity for farming communities in both Indonesia and Malaysia.

Dengan fokus pada manfaat konkret yang akan diperoleh, kerjasama ini menjadi tonggak penting dalam upaya meningkatkan ketahanan pangan, daya saing produk, dan kesejahteraan petani di kawasan ASEAN. (mhasan)