“The goal of this commodity farmers’ network is to serve as a platform for 50 commodity-based farmers from 21 villages across 9 subdistricts to connect and collaborate with various stakeholders — from village and district governments to the private sector.”
— Siti Rahmawati
Indonesia has long been known as an agrarian nation, with agriculture forming the backbone of its economy and a pillar of national food security. Yet, as times change, farmers face increasingly complex challenges that threaten productivity, welfare, and the stability of the food system.
According to Deddy Wahab, a community organizer from Gemawan in Sambas, there are at least five major issues confronting farmers today:
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Conversion of agricultural land into oil palm plantations or non-agricultural use, weakening food security.
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Lack of regeneration due to low interest among younger generations to pursue farming.
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Direct impacts of climate change disrupting harvest cycles and yields.
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Limited access for smallholder farmers to modern technology and capital needed for efficient farming methods.
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Inefficient distribution chains, which cause rising consumer prices while farmers’ profits remain minimal.
“These challenges require holistic solutions and collaboration among all stakeholders,” Deddy emphasized.
Forming the Commodity Farmers’ Network in Sambas
In response, the Commodity Farmers’ Network of Sambas Regency (JaPeDas) was officially established.
Siti Rahmawati, the event organizer, explained that JaPeDas aims to serve as a platform for 50 commodity-based farmers representing 21 villages in 9 subdistricts — fostering collaboration among farmers, local governments, and the private sector.
“The member villages include Lumbang, Gapura, Penakalan, Setalik, Sulung, Sekuduk, Parit Raja, Sungai Baru, Teluk Kasih, Trimandayan, Sengawang, Semangau, Sempalai, Sabaran, Serindang, Bakau, Parit Setia, Trigadu, Tri Kembang, Seranggam, and Matang Segarau,” explained Rahmawati, affectionately known as Wati.
Building Leadership and Strategic Collaboration
The JaPeDas leadership structure is headed by Tajudin (Chairperson), with Muslimin (Secretary) and Sumarni (Treasurer).
The network’s formation was attended by representatives from the Sambas District Office of Agriculture and Food Security, Tani Merdeka Indonesia, and the Head of Sekuduk Village.
Tajudin, who also represents Tani Merdeka Indonesia, sees strategic opportunities through national programs such as the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) initiative.
“JaPeDas opens opportunities for local rice, vegetable, and fruit farmers in Sambas to become MBG program suppliers — provided they meet quality standards, such as premium-grade rice supervised by nutritionists,” he said.
He added that JaPeDas is envisioned not merely as a farmers’ network but as a collective movement to strengthen community participation in local economic development, rooted in sustainable forest and land management across Sambas Regency.
Author: Siti Rahmawati, Gemawan
Editor: Ersa Dwiyana