Strengthening Agriculture and Food Systems: Building Sustainable Prosperity in East Indonesia

Diemas Sukma Hawkins

Chairman, Nusra Economic Council

Agriculture remains the backbone of East Indonesia’s economy, shaping livelihoods, nutrition, and socio-economic development across Nusa Tenggara, Maluku, and Papua. Despite its abundant land, unique agroecological zones, and rich biodiversity, the region faces challenges in productivity, infrastructure, and market access. The Nusra Economic Council envisions a future where modern, sustainable agriculture and resilient food systems can drive inclusive growth, climate adaptation, and food security for all communities in Eastern Indonesia.

The Importance of Agriculture in East Indonesia

Agriculture in East Indonesia is diverse, encompassing smallholder farms, cash crops, staple foods, horticulture, and livestock. Key commodities include:

• Staple crops: Corn, rice, sweet potatoes, and cassava, which form the dietary foundation for local communities.

• Cash crops: Cocoa, coffee, cloves, nutmeg, and vanilla, which generate export revenue and provide livelihoods.

• Horticulture: Vegetables and fruits for local consumption and domestic trade.

• Livestock and fisheries integration: Cattle, goats, and poultry complement cropping systems and provide protein, manure, and secondary income.

Agriculture is not just an economic activity; it is central to food security, cultural identity, and social cohesion. In East Nusa Tenggara, for instance, subsistence farming continues to support communities in remote areas where access to markets is limited. Meanwhile, Maluku and Papua contribute specialty crops to national and international markets, including cloves, nutmeg, and tropical fruits.

Opportunities in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems

The region’s agroecological diversity and untapped potential offer opportunities for innovation and investment:

1. Climate-Smart Agriculture – Implementing resilient farming techniques such as drought-tolerant crops, integrated soil fertility management, and agroforestry can reduce vulnerability to climate variability.

2. Value Addition and Processing – Smallholder farmers can benefit from post-harvest infrastructure, packaging, and processing to improve income and reduce waste.

3. Agri-Tech and Digital Solutions – Mobile apps, market platforms, precision agriculture, and satellite monitoring can improve productivity, traceability, and market access.

4. Organic and Specialty Products – Growing global demand for organic, fair-trade, and specialty crops provides export opportunities while promoting sustainable practices.

5. Integrated Livestock and Crop Systems – Enhancing synergy between crop production and livestock can increase efficiency, improve soil health, and diversify income streams.

6. Agroecotourism – Linking agriculture with tourism can generate new revenue streams and showcase traditional farming practices as cultural heritage.

Challenges Facing Agriculture in East Indonesia

Despite potential, several constraints limit agricultural development in the region:

• Infrastructure Gaps – Poor roads, limited storage facilities, and inadequate irrigation restrict productivity and market access.

• Climate Vulnerability – Droughts, floods, and erratic rainfall threaten yields, especially in drylands of Nusa Tenggara.

• Limited Access to Finance and Technology – Smallholders often lack capital, credit, inputs, and knowledge to adopt modern practices.

• Land Tenure and Governance Issues – Unclear land rights and fragmented land management can inhibit investment and sustainable land use.

• Market Access and Value Chains – Farmers face challenges connecting to domestic and international markets, limiting income potential.

The Nusra Economic Council Perspective

The Nusra Economic Council advocates a holistic approach to agriculture and food systems in Eastern Indonesia. NEC envisions:

• Inclusive Growth: Prioritizing smallholders, women, and youth in programs to improve income, skills, and resilience.

• Sustainability: Promoting climate-smart agriculture, soil conservation, and biodiversity protection to ensure long-term productivity.

• Market Integration: Strengthening local and regional value chains to connect producers with markets, investors, and consumers.

• Innovation: Leveraging agri-tech, research, and knowledge-sharing to modernize production while respecting local traditions.

• Resilient Food Systems: Ensuring that agriculture contributes to food security, nutrition, and self-reliance in remote areas.

Policy and Investment Recommendations

To unlock East Indonesia’s agricultural potential, NEC recommends the following strategies:

1. Infrastructure Development – Improve irrigation, storage, roads, and cold chains to enhance productivity and market access.

2. Capacity Building – Provide training for farmers in modern techniques, climate resilience, and post-harvest management.

3. Financing and Incentives – Facilitate access to microfinance, credit, and public-private partnerships to support investment in agriculture.

4. Value Chain Development – Promote processing, packaging, and branding for domestic and international markets.

5. Data-Driven Planning – Use satellite monitoring, market intelligence, and research to guide decisions and optimize resource allocation.

6. Climate Adaptation Programs – Support drought-tolerant crops, water management, agroforestry, and disaster-resilient practices.

Agriculture and food systems are central to the sustainable development of Eastern Indonesia. By combining traditional knowledge, modern technology, and strategic investment, the region can achieve higher productivity, stronger resilience, and inclusive economic growth. The Nusra Economic Council calls for coordinated efforts from governments, private sector actors, and local communities to ensure that East Indonesia’s agriculture continues to feed its people, preserve its ecosystems, and drive prosperity for generations to come.

Browse other articles

Join Our Newsletter

Stay up to date on our events, publications, and exclusive content