Chemical-Free Farming to the Rescue

In spite of its fertile soil, Indonesia is still miles away from food self-sufficiency. Some farmers have adopted the organic method to increase their yields and improve food security. In Waingapu, East Sumba Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, for instance, Rahmat Organik started the Organic Farming Field School and is campaigning for chemical-free farming. Meanwhile, women farmers in the Kapuas Hulu Regency, West Kalimantan, have returned to certain local wisdom passed down through generations and are producing organic pesticide from jengkol, or dog fruit (Archidendron pauciflorum). At the end of August, the Agriculture Ministry announced that it would establish the National Qualification Framework (KKNI) to outline organic farming standards in the country. Tempo English reports.