As a strategic partner of the government in promoting national economic development, Bank Mandiri has emphasized its commitment to developing the productive sector, especially rice farming (17/11). Through its Farmer Entrepreneurship Program, the bank provides practical solutions to improve farmers’ welfare and strengthen national food security.

This effort aligns with the sustainable development vision and the Asta Cita program of President Prabowo, focusing on economic independence, equitable prosperity, and increasing productivity in strategic sectors that directly benefit the public.

Farmer Development Program 2025 in Collaboration with UGM

Yoga Sulistijono, Senior Vice President of Government Project 3 at Bank Mandiri, explained that this commitment is implemented through the 2025 Farmer Development Program in Kebumen. The program is a collaboration between Bank Mandiri, Gadjah Mada University (UGM), and PT Karya Utama Gama (KUGAMA).

The program provides comprehensive guidance across all farming stages, from pre-planting, planting, to harvesting, using scientific and environmentally friendly approaches.

Modern Farming Methods Increase Rice Productivity

Since July 2025, the program has included the use of Gagamora 7 high-quality rice seeds, biochar, the Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) method for water efficiency, and integrated pest control using biological agents.

“Through cross-unit collaboration and the use of more measured methods, the third planting season recorded a productivity increase of up to 8.9 tons per hectare, surpassing the national average in Java of 6.2 tons per hectare. This achievement is an important milestone in developing modern farmers who adapt to climate change and use resources efficiently,” Yoga said.

Economic Benefits from High-Quality Rice

Most of the harvest comes from rice with high quality and market value, bringing significant economic benefits for farmers in Kebumen.

As the program’s highlight, Bank Mandiri, the Kebumen Regency Government, and participating farmers held a Joint Harvest Ceremony on 12 November. The event symbolized the success of collaboration between banking, academia, and local government in building a productive, inclusive, and sustainable agricultural ecosystem.

Yoga added, “Through the Farmer Entrepreneurship Program, we support government efforts to strengthen food security so people have access to sufficient, safe, nutritious, and sustainable food. We aim to ensure farmers manage their farms efficiently, remain competitive, and adapt to future challenges.”

The success of this program confirms Bank Mandiri’s role as a strategic government partner in accelerating productive sector growth, strengthening national food security, and creating more job opportunities in rural areas. Bank Mandiri plans to expand this collaborative model to other regions in Indonesia as part of its Sinergi Majukan Negeri initiative.

PHOTO: BANK MANDIRI

This article was created with AI assistance.