The development of plantation farmer-based corporate institutional areas is not solely the responsibility of district/city officials; the role of provinces as policy-makers is crucial in supporting its success. Therefore, there's a need for an increase in human resources through hands-on training for field officers and agricultural counselors, directly impacting the goal of enhancing farmers' welfare. Ence Achmad Rafiddin Rizal, Head of the Kaltim Plantation Agency, emphasized the importance of strengthening farmer institutions through coaching and counseling efforts during the "Training of Trainer" (TOT) session for Paser District officials. This training aims to enhance the capacity of plantation support staff in Long Ikis and Kuaro sub-districts. Challenges faced include the expanding area of smallholder farms, yet low crop productivity, weak farmer institutions, poor business management, and the inability of farmers' products to compete in the market. One strategy to improve farmers' welfare is by developing plantation areas based on farmer corporations in Paser District, which is one of the main projects in Kaltim. This initiative aims to strengthen farmer institutions, agribusinesses, and increase income and welfare.
The training's objective is to enhance the skills and knowledge of plantation support staff in Paser District, focusing on developing plantation farmer-based corporate institutions, particularly in Long Ikis and Kuaro sub-districts. The training is part of a major project from 2024 to 2026, aiming to establish plantation areas based on farmer corporations, expected to strengthen farmer institutions, agribusinesses, and improve the income and welfare of plantation farmers. Conducted over eight days from April 22 to 29, 2024, the training is attended by 20 technical field officers and agricultural counselors from Paser District, including those from Long Ikis and Kuaro sub-districts. This initiative underscores the commitment to empowering farmers and promoting economic growth in rural areas.
