Paten Mekar Tani Strengthens National Food Security Through Strategic Collaboration in West Sumatra

Padang, July 24, 2025 – Efforts to strengthen Indonesia’s national food security have been reinforced through the launch of “Bajaguang: From Ranah Minang for Indonesia’s Food Security,” an integrated corn agriculture initiative initiated by PT Mekar Agrifin Teknologi (Paten Mekar Tani). The program was officially launched on Thursday, July 24, 2025, in Padang Pariaman, West Sumatra.

This initiative brings together cross-sector strategic collaboration involving Paten Mekar Tani, the West Sumatra Regional Police (POLDA), the Provincial Government of West Sumatra, and PT Mekar Investama Teknologi (MEKAR), with support from private partners and local communities. MEKAR plays a key role in connecting the productive financing ecosystem by bringing in both domestic and international investors.

The Food Security Program aims to strengthen a sustainable national corn farming ecosystem through the provision of agricultural inputs, technical assistance, and structured offtake schemes. Its primary focus is to build an agricultural system that not only increases production but also empowers local farmers as key actors in the national food security value chain.

The President Director of Paten Mekar Tani, Ari Irpendi Putra, stated that this cross-sector collaboration is a concrete response to increasingly complex food security challenges. “This program represents a collaborative model between government, private sector, law enforcement, and farmers. Food security is not only the responsibility of the state but of all elements of society,” he said.

Meanwhile, MEKAR CEO Pandu Aditya Kristy emphasized that food security can only be achieved through real support and cross-sector collaboration, especially in high-potential regions such as West Sumatra. “At MEKAR, we believe that strong agriculture is the foundation of a prosperous society and a resilient nation. Through collaboration from Ranah Minang, we aim to realize sustainable national food security,” he stated.

The Governor of West Sumatra, Mahyeldi, expressed appreciation for the program, describing it as a concrete step by the region in supporting the national food security agenda. He noted that strengthening food systems requires not only production but also fair partnerships, appropriate technology, and sustainability.

He also emphasized that, as directed by the President, Indonesia must achieve food sovereignty and reduce dependency on external parties. In West Sumatra, rice and corn are prioritized commodities, aligned with the region’s development vision.

The West Sumatra Police Chief, Inspector General Gatot Tri Suryanta, also conveyed his support. He highlighted that food security is a crucial component of socio-economic stability, requiring strong security and oversight.

The launch event was marked by a symbolic corn planting, the signing of a collaboration monument, and the awarding of the “West Sumatra Potential Driving Figures” to individuals and institutions contributing significantly to agricultural development in the region.

Through this program, West Sumatra is expected to strengthen its role as a national corn production hub. Furthermore, this initiative is expected to serve as a replicable model for other regions in building a resilient, independent, and equitable food system.

The event was also supported by partners and sponsors such as Bentara Agri Indonesia, Kirana, ID Botani, Winmar, and Gloviewer, demonstrating a shared commitment to sustainable agriculture, local farmer empowerment, and inclusive regional economic development.