Government policy model in supporting sago production as a local food substitue for rice in Indonesia
Fitriani1*, Ransta L Lekatompessy2 , Fransin Kontu3 and Imelda C Laode4

Universitas Musamus

Abstract

This research aims to analyze and evaluate the government policy model in supporting sago production as a local food substitute for rice in Indonesia, with a focus on the effectiveness, challenges and opportunities of this policy. Sago has great potential as an alternative food considering Indonesia^s geographical conditions which are suitable for sago cultivation and the need for food diversification to increase national food security. A qualitative approach was used in this research. The research results show that the government has implemented several policies to support sago production, such as agricultural input subsidies, construction of irrigation infrastructure and roads, as well as training programs and technical assistance for farmers. However, the implementation of this policy is faced with various challenges, including limited budget allocations, lack of coordination between government institutions, and low levels of technology adoption by local farmers. This study also identified that public understanding of the benefits of sago as an alternative food is still limited, so more intensive education and promotion efforts are needed. Apart from that, support from the private sector and partnerships with local communities are also considered crucial to creating a conducive ecosystem for sago production and marketing. This research suggests the need to increase budget allocations for sago-related programs, strengthen coordination between institutions through the formation of a special task force, as well as educational campaigns involving mass media and educational institutions. In addition, developing partnerships with the private sector can accelerate technology transfer and market access for sago products. It is hoped that these findings can provide a real contribution to the development of more comprehensive and effective policies in supporting sago production as sustainable local food in Indonesia, as well as playing a role in strengthening national food security.

Keywords: government, policy, sago, food security, Indonesia

Topic: Climate Change Mitigation and Policy