President Prabowo Vows Firm Action Against Business Practices That Harm Farmers

BOGOR, investortrust.id – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has issued a strong warning to businesses against unfair practices that harm farmers, vowing to take decisive action under the country’s constitutional provisions.

“Businesses should make a profit, but they must not strangle our farmers. Instead of strangling them, I will strangle you,” Prabowo declared in a speech during the 17th anniversary of the Gerindra Party at the Sentul International Convention Center in Bogor on Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025.

The President, who also serves as Chairman of the Gerindra Party, emphasized that while businesses have the right to earn profits, they must do so within reasonable limits. “Profits are allowed, but they must be fair. Our people must prosper. Our farmers must earn sufficient returns,” he stated.

Call for Agricultural Policy Enforcement

Prabowo also directed the Ministry of Agriculture to oversee the implementation of these measures, ensuring that economic policies align with national interests. He expressed confidence that Indonesia could become a prosperous nation if economic regulations are strictly followed.

“We have the Minister of Agriculture here. Are these businesses willing to follow our path? Do they still want to operate in this Republic? As long as we remain on the right course, we can become a wealthy nation,” he said.

President Prabowo Subianto’s warning to business owners who exploit farmers aligns with a broader challenge facing Indonesia’s agricultural sector: the increasing number of smallholder farmers. Data from Indonesia’s Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) shows that the proportion of petani gurem—those cultivating less than 0.5 hectares of land—rose from 54% in 2013 to 62% in 2023.

This trend reflects a growing issue of land fragmentation, limiting farmers’ ability to achieve economies of scale and secure sustainable incomes. Prabowo’s emphasis on fair business practices, particularly in the rice milling sector, underscores his administration’s commitment to addressing systemic inequalities in the agricultural supply chain.

“If you refuse to support and uplift our farmers, I will invoke Article 33. On behalf of the Indonesian people, I will take over the rice mills that violate these principles,” Prabowo asserted in his speech.

 

Constitutional Framework: Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution

President Prabowo referred to Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution, which outlines the country’s economic principles:

1. The economy is structured as a cooperative effort based on the principle of kinship.

2. Key production sectors that affect the livelihood of many people are controlled by the state.

3. Natural resources, including land and water, are managed by the state for the greatest benefit of the people.

4. The national economy is conducted based on economic democracy, prioritizing fairness, sustainability, environmental awareness, independence, and maintaining balanced economic progress and unity.

5. Further regulations on the implementation of this article are stipulated by law.

Prabowo's firm stance signals potential government interventions aimed at ensuring fair treatment and economic security for Indonesia’s farming communities.