Revitalising the function of agricultural extension in Indonesia to support rice self-sufficiency

Abstract

The role of agricultural extension workers is very much needed to guide farmers so they can adopt technology and facilitate the growth and development of farmer institutions. However, agricultural extension institutions have faced uncertainty and have even lost direction since the Regional Government issued Law No. 23/2014. Agricultural extension workers no longer have an agricultural extension-coordinating agency; therefore, supervision and guidance do not function properly. As a result, the performance of agricultural extension experiences stagnation. This study aims to formulate alternative agricultural extension policies after the issuance of Presidential Regulation No. 35/2022 on Strengthening the Function of Agricultural Extension. The analysis method used a literature review approach. Based on the study results, it is necessary to derive policies that provide synergy between the centre and regions to support strengthening agricultural extension toward national rice self-sufficiency. If agricultural extension activities run according to their duties and functions, they can increase rice productivity by 29−33%. Recommended policy alternatives: (1) strengthening coordination between the Ministry of Agriculture and agricultural extension institutions at the provincial, district/city, and sub-district levels; (2) refocusing agricultural extension programs and activities; and (3) strengthening the agricultural extension budget through an assistance task mechanism.