BANGLI – As a popular horticultural commodity, citrus has become the main focus of the Directorate General of Horticulture of the Ministry of Agriculture.
Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman even emphasized the need to increase local fruit production and productivity to reduce dependence on imported fruit.
“We continue to assist farmers, provide regular training and technical guidance, and deal seriously with pests and plant diseases. The state must be present in every problem of farmers,” said Minister Amran.
Citrus cultivation is considered a highly profitable agricultural endeavor, but farmers often face obstacles, especially disease attacks such as root rot and stem rot.
Therefore, Director General of Horticulture Prihasto Setyanto highlighted the importance of pest and disease management to prevent crop failure.
“It’s time not to mess around with disease attacks on citrus. We must maintain the freedom of citrus from Diplodia, Phytophthora, and fruit flies,” said Prihasto.
“The success of Indonesian citrus exports is determined by low residue and the products that are flies-free. Our big dream of dominating the citrus export market must be realized through high quality standards,” he, who also serves as Acting Secretary General of the Ministry of Agriculture, continued.
In an effort to increase farmers’ knowledge, Director of Horticultural Protection Jekvy Hendra provided education to citrus farmers in Bangli-Bali.
One of the farmers, Faris, welcomed the effort and plans to apply it to overcome the problems he has been facing.
“This is what we have been waiting for. After discussions with plant disease expert, Mr Jekvy, I think this is the answer to all citrus farmers’ problems,” said Faris.
The Ministry of Agriculture is committed to continue supporting farmers in facing challenges and improving the competitiveness of Indonesian citrus in the global market.
