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| Minister Nusron Calls on PMII Alumni to Seize Land Reform Opportunities for Justice and Economic Empowerment. |
Jakarta — Indonesia’s Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN), Nusron Wahid, is calling on alumni of the Islamic Student Movement (PMII) to take an active role in promoting justice, equity, and sustainable economic growth. He delivered this message during the National Orientation and Inauguration event of the PMII Alumni Association (PB IKA-PMII) held in Jakarta on Sunday, July 13, 2025.
In his speech, Minister Nusron emphasized that sustainable economics isn't just about preserving what's already in place—it’s about ensuring new opportunities are given to those who haven’t received them yet.
“If something new comes along, don’t give it to those who already have plenty. That's where real justice and equity come into play. This opens doors for our PMII family, as well as other communities like NU and Muhammadiyah, to step in and make a difference,” said Nusron.
Land Reform: A Real Opportunity for the People
Minister Nusron revealed that while 55.9 million hectares of land in Indonesia have already been mapped and certified, there's still about 1.4 million hectares of abandoned land available under the Agrarian Reform program (TORA). This land can be utilized by anyone with a mission to benefit the public—including PMII alumni—for education, religious institutions, or community-based economic empowerment.
“There’s huge potential in these lands. Instead of letting them go to waste, let’s use them to uplift society,” he urged.
Collaboration with Local Governments Is Crucial
However, accessing land through the TORA program isn’t a solo effort. Nusron explained the importance of working closely with local governments. While the central government identifies available land, it’s up to regional heads—such as mayors or regents acting as the heads of local Agrarian Reform Task Forces (GTRA)—to determine who should receive the land.
“That’s why it's so important to build strong partnerships with local leaders. They know best who truly needs this land,” he added.
Land Use Must Align with Regional Spatial Plans
Even with land available, Minister Nusron reminded everyone that its use must follow local spatial plans. For example, if someone wants to build a boarding school or religious center, the land must be designated for residential or industrial use. If it’s categorized as agricultural or plantation land, it can’t be used for school buildings but may be used for things like pesantren cooperatives.
“If the land is meant for farming or defense, you can’t build a dormitory on it. But you can establish a cooperative that supports the school,” he clarified.
Building a Just and Inclusive Economy Together
The event was also attended by prominent figures including KH Said Aqil Siradj (Senior Advisor of Nahdlatul Ulama), Fathan Subchi (Chairman of PB IKA-PMII), Deputy Speaker of the House Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal, and many PMII alumni from across Indonesia.
Minister Nusron’s main message was clear: PMII alumni and broader civil society organizations are invited to contribute to the nation’s development through land reform. This isn't just about land—it's about creating equal opportunities, promoting justice, and driving a more inclusive economy for future generations.