Seeking Food Security

AS we commemorate World Food Day this week, Indonesia is conscious that its 230 million people—growing at a rapid rate—need food security. Despite all efforts by the government and the people, achieving this goal is fraught with obstacles, like the national food program planned in Merauke, Papua province. There, the problem is the lack of coordination between central and provincial governments, not to mention concerns over possible environmental damage and the special favors allegedly given to big business. Meanwhile, although they are at the frontline of the food chain production, farmers remain sadly marginalized. A Tempo English Edition special report from Papua and East Nusa Tenggara.