Bintan farmers report falling vegetable prices to Riau Islands Vice Governor

During a field visit and joint harvest in Kampung Kangboi, Bintan, Riau Islands Vice Governor Nyanyang Haris Pratamura addressed concerns raised by local farmers regarding plummeting vegetable prices. Kaharrudin, chairman of the Bintan Jaya Farmer Group, reported that falling market prices have significantly reduced local farmers' incomes.

Vice Governor Nyanyang emphasized that increasing production is insufficient for farmer welfare if market access is not improved. He pledged that the provincial government would address field challenges, including irrigation issues, pest control, limited production facilities, and extreme weather impacts.

To improve bargaining power, the Vice Governor encouraged the strengthening of farmer group institutions to facilitate better access to capital and professional post-harvest management. He also called for technical assistance from the Department of Food Security, Agriculture, and Animal Health to help farmers adopt climate-friendly agricultural technologies.