![]() |
Polda Kalbar Plants Corn with Bengkayang Locals: A Real Step to Strengthen Local Food Security. |
In an effort to strengthen national food security — which is becoming increasingly critical amid global crises — the West Kalimantan Regional Police (Polda Kalbar) has once again shown its commitment to community welfare. This time, through real, hands-on action, Polda Kalbar organized a corn planting event together with local residents in Bengkayang Regency on Tuesday, April 23, 2024.
This initiative wasn’t just a formality. It’s part of a national food security movement aimed at promoting independence and empowering communities based on local potential. Simply put, this effort shows that food security isn’t just the responsibility of farmers or the government — it’s something we all need to take part in, including law enforcement officers.
Connecting with the People on Bengkayang’s Fertile Land
The atmosphere on Bengkayang’s farmland that morning was lively and full of spirit. Not only farmers but also police officers from different units came down to the fields, working hand in hand with community leaders and local farmer groups.
What Polda Kalbar did was far from just a symbolic gesture — it was a genuine collaboration between the police and the community. A Polda Kalbar representative delivered an important message during the event: "We want to prove that ensuring food security is not just the farmers’ job. As part of the community, we also have a role to play in encouraging people to make the most of their land. Let’s plant together, take care of the crops together, and harvest the fruits together,” said one of the Polda Kalbar officials during the event.
Why Corn? A Strategic Commodity Amid Global Challenges
You might be wondering, why choose corn? Well, it’s not a random choice. Amid global economic uncertainty and rising food crisis risks, corn has become one of the most strategic crops. Not only does it have great economic value, but it’s also relatively easy to cultivate and can adapt well to various types of soil — especially in West Kalimantan.
Bengkayang itself is known for its vast, fertile agricultural land. With its supportive climate, it makes perfect sense that this area was selected as the prime location for this massive corn planting program.
Corn isn’t just an alternative staple food — it’s also a crucial component in livestock feed and various food industries. In short, if managed properly, corn farming could have a wide-ranging economic impact.
Strong Enthusiasm from Farmers and Locals
Another highlight of the event was the enthusiastic participation of the locals. Farmer groups showed great spirit during the planting process. Side by side with police officers, they prepared the soil, sowed the seeds, and watered the fields. You could really feel the sense of togetherness and solidarity in the air.
One of the locals, Mr. Tono, shared his excitement about being part of the program: "Usually we just see police on the streets or in offices, but today they’re down here with us in the fields. This is what real teamwork looks like. We feel seen and supported. Hopefully, the harvest will bring us all good things,” said Mr. Tono with a big smile.
And that’s exactly the spirit this program aims to build — breaking down barriers between authorities and the community, uniting everyone for a better future, starting with food.
Planting Seeds of Hope in West Kalimantan
This corn planting event carried a beautiful core message: “From Bengkayang’s fertile soil, we plant hope for the future.” It’s a simple yet powerful line that captures the deeper meaning of the day. They weren’t just planting corn seeds; they were sowing seeds of hope, independence, collaboration, and resilience against future challenges.
This program also ties into the broader national movement for food self-sufficiency, which the government has been pushing harder lately. A strong local food system will help Indonesia better withstand global food price volatility, climate change, and potential supply chain crises.
Expanding the Program to More Areas
And the good news? This initiative in Bengkayang is just the beginning. Polda Kalbar plans to roll out similar programs across other areas in West Kalimantan. The goal is clear: reach more communities, make better use of idle land, and strengthen grassroots food security.
This also shows that law enforcement bodies like the police aren’t only about maintaining public order — they can actively contribute to sustainable development, especially in vital sectors like food security.
Time for Everyone to Take Part in Food Security
What Polda Kalbar has done should serve as an inspiration for other regions. Food security isn’t just an agricultural department issue. It’s about all of us — working together to ensure there’s enough food for everyone, now and in the future.
So if you have a little empty land around your home, why not start planting something useful? It could be corn, chilies, vegetables, or anything suitable for your area. From one small seed, a big future hope can grow.
Gulir ke atas untuk lanjut membaca
Link nonton film terbaru pilihan kami
*BACA BERITA TERKINI LAINNYA DI GOOGLE NEWS