Kutai Timur Allocates Rp500 Million To Protect 1,200 Hectares Of Rice Fields Through AUTP Program

Ria Sartika    Monday, April 13, 2026    Comment   

Kutai Timur Allocates Rp500 Million To Protect 1,200 Hectares Of Rice Fields Through AUTP Program

Kutai Timur allocates Rp500 million for AUTP in 2026 to protect 1,200 hectares of rice fields from crop failure risks and strengthen farmers’ financial resilience.

SANGATTA — The Kutai Timur (Kutim) Regency Government in East Kalimantan continues to strengthen protection for farmers against the risks of crop failure. In 2026, the local administration allocated Rp500 million to safeguard 1,200 hectares of community rice fields through the Rice Farming Insurance Program (AUTP).

Head of the Food Crops, Horticulture, and Livestock Agency (DTPHP) of Kutai Timur, Dyah Ratnaningrum, emphasized that AUTP plays a critical role in maintaining the sustainability of agricultural activities amid unpredictable risks.

“AUTP is one of the key instruments to protect farming activities from the risk of crop failure,” Dyah Ratnaningrum said in Sangatta, East Kalimantan.

Insurance Coverage Targets Key Rice Production Areas

The allocated budget will be distributed across several major rice production zones in Kutai Timur, ensuring farmers receive financial protection if crop losses occur due to natural disasters or plant disturbances.

Before determining the insured land area, the local government worked together with PT Asuransi Jasa Indonesia (Jasindo) to conduct field verification and data validation. As a result, 1,200 hectares of rice fields were officially designated to receive insurance coverage.

This verification process ensures that the program is implemented accurately and reflects the real conditions faced by farmers in the region.

Average Insurance Premium Set At Rp416,000 Per Hectare

Under the AUTP scheme, the average insurance premium is set at approximately Rp416,000 per hectare. This figure serves as the main reference in calculating the required budget allocation.

Meanwhile, the agreed insurance protection value reaches Rp12 million per hectare, providing farmers with financial support if crop failure occurs.

Such protection is expected to help farmers recover faster and continue planting during the next growing season without facing severe financial setbacks.

“Farmers who experience losses due to natural disasters or crop disturbances can receive financial compensation, allowing them to continue their farming activities,” Dyah explained.

Protecting Farmers From Floods, Drought, And Pest Attacks

The AUTP program is designed to minimize production risks that frequently threaten agricultural output, including:

• Flooding

• Drought

• Pest and disease attacks

• Extreme weather changes

These risks often result in significant financial losses for farmers. With insurance protection in place, the economic impact can be reduced substantially.

The local government views AUTP as part of a broader long-term strategy to strengthen sustainable agricultural systems and ensure long-term productivity.

Supporting Food Security And Rural Economic Stability

Beyond providing financial protection, the AUTP program also contributes to strengthening regional food security.

By offering insurance coverage, farmers gain confidence to continue cultivating their land despite potential risks. This sense of security is expected to increase productivity while maintaining the economic stability of rural communities.

Looking ahead, the Kutai Timur government has indicated that the program may be expanded to cover more farmland, allowing a greater number of farmers to benefit from crop insurance support.

FAQ

What is AUTP?

AUTP (Rice Farming Insurance Program) is a government-backed insurance scheme designed to protect farmers from crop losses caused by natural disasters, pests, or other disruptions.

How much farmland is protected in Kutim in 2026?

A total of 1,200 hectares of rice fields are covered under the AUTP program.

How much funding was allocated for the program?

The Kutai Timur government allocated approximately Rp500 million for AUTP implementation in 2026.

What is the compensation amount if crop failure occurs?

Farmers can receive insurance compensation of up to Rp12 million per hectare.

Who verified the farmland data?

Field verification was conducted jointly by the local government and PT Asuransi Jasa Indonesia (Jasindo).

Landak Regent Urges Farmers to Go Modern, Warns of El Nino Threat

Ria Sartika    Saturday, March 28, 2026    Comment   

Landak Regent Urges Farmers to Go Modern, Warns of El Nino Threat

Landak Regent Karolin Margret Natasa urges modern farming and warns of El Nino risks, stressing education and proper planting schedules.

Karolin Margret Natasa has once again emphasized the importance of transforming the agricultural sector in Landak Regency. She urged farmers to become more modern and knowledgeable in order to face current challenges, including climate change.

The statement was delivered during a thanksgiving harvest event (roah) and the opening of an inter-village football tournament in Amboyo Selatan Village, Ngabang District, on Friday (March 27, 2026).

In her remarks, Karolin stressed that agriculture can no longer rely solely on traditional methods without proper knowledge. Education, she said, is the key to improving farmers’ productivity.

“Agriculture cannot be separated from education. Farmers need to understand fertilizers, crop management, and how to choose the right seeds to become modern farmers,” she said.

Education and Attention to Detail Are Crucial

Karolin also highlighted common mistakes that still occur in farming practices, particularly in fertilizer use. She noted that a lack of understanding in reading fertilizer labels can negatively affect crop yields.

“Sometimes people say they’ve fertilized their crops, but it turns out the fertilizer isn’t meant for fruit production. The leaves grow green, but there’s no fruit,” she joked, drawing laughter from the audience.

According to her, even simple mistakes like this can significantly impact agricultural productivity.

Farmers Warned to Prepare for El Nino

In addition to education, Karolin delivered an important warning about the potential impact of El Nino, which is expected to bring a prolonged dry season until September.

To prevent crop failure, she urged farmers to follow planting schedules set by Agricultural Extension Officers (PPL) and local authorities.

“Farmers must not delay planting. If the dry season arrives, crops may fail to grow and lead to harvest failure,” she stressed.

Simultaneous Planting to Prevent Pest Attacks

Karolin also emphasized the importance of coordination among farmers, especially those working within the same agricultural area. Unsynchronized planting, she said, can attract pests such as rats.

“If you’re farming in the same area, plant at the same time. Otherwise, early crops will be destroyed by pests,” she explained.

She encouraged farmers to work together and follow guidance for better results.

Government Support Through Farming Equipment

As part of the government’s support, Karolin handed over five hand sprayers to local farmer groups. The assistance is expected to improve efficiency in farming activities.

Opening Football Tournament, Promotes Sportsmanship

Beyond agriculture, Karolin also officially opened the inter-village football tournament. Using a friendly and local tone, she reminded young participants to maintain sportsmanship.

“If you want to fight, then don’t play football,” she joked, prompting laughter from the crowd.

Closing Remarks and Hope for Better Harvests

At the end of her speech, Karolin apologized for not being able to stay until the end of the event due to a tight schedule, including meetings with the Education Office and Education Council.

She expressed hope for a successful event and better harvests in the future.

“I hope the tournament runs smoothly, and may our next harvest be even better,” she concluded.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Why did Karolin encourage farmers to modernize?
To improve productivity, efficiency, and resilience against challenges like climate change.

2. What happens if fertilizer is used incorrectly?
Crops may not grow optimally, for example producing leaves without fruit.

3. What is El Nino and its impact on agriculture?
El Nino is a climate phenomenon that can cause prolonged drought and increase the risk of crop failure.

4. Why is simultaneous planting important?
It helps prevent pest attacks and ensures more uniform crop yields.

5. What support was provided to farmers?
Five hand sprayers were distributed to local farmer groups.