The Ministry of Agriculture (Kementan) through the Agricultural Quarantine Agency (Barantan) is updating the list of pests and diseases in plants. This update is to prevent the entry and spread of plant pests and diseases, called Plant Destruction Organisms (OPT), in the territory of Indonesia. According to the Head of the Center for Plant Quarantine and Biosafety of Vegetables, Agricultural Quarantine Agency, AM Adnan, the renewal is also to preserve the natural biological resources of plants in the country. "It is also important in encouraging market access for agricultural commodities, especially plant origin, to the global market," said Adnan in Bogor recently. According to Article 27 of Law Number 21 of 2019 concerning Animal, Fish and Plant Quarantine, the government has the authority to establish a list of quarantine plant pest organisms (OPTK) based on the results of a risk analysis and their distribution area. While OPTK itself is dynamic, following the development of the situation. Adnan explained that the list of OPTKs has been established through Minister of Agriculture Regulation No. 25 of 2020. The list needs to be reviewed periodically for its existence. A review was carried out on the naming of species, both the latest and synonymous names as well as host ranges, carrier media, and distribution areas.
Andan explained that the refinement of Ministerial Regulation 25 of 2020 is crucial, especially to produce a draft with more complete data. This is also needed for consideration of market access with trading partners. It is necessary to trace the reported OPTK findings and to verify as soon as possible, so that adequate follow-up can be carried out. The review and refinement of the OPTK list was carried out in two stages. The first phase will be held at the end of September in Ciawi, Bogor. The second stage or finalization will be in October or November. The improvement involved academics and researchers from Gadjah Mada University, IPB University, Brawijaya University, Lampung University, North Sumatra University, Padjadjaran University, Hassanudin University, SEAMEO BIOTROP, the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), and the related directorate of protection.
