Indonesia advances agricultural support for coconut industry and women farmers

The Indonesian Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) has announced support schemes to strengthen the national coconut industry. During the World Coconut Day 2026 event in Manado, BPDP Director Normansyah H. Syahruddin outlined plans focusing on crop rejuvenation, infrastructure, human resource development, and research and development.

With approximately 3.29 million hectares of coconut plantations in Indonesia, the sector is heavily driven by smallholders, who manage about 98% of the total area. North Sulawesi remains a major hub, holding the second-largest plantation area in the country after Riau.

Separately, the Ministry of Women Empowerment and Child Protection (KemenPPPA) is promoting the ‘Women’s Food Garden’ program to increase women's access to productive land. Deputy Minister Veronica Tan emphasized that providing women with land access and agricultural assistance is vital for economic independence and family food security. The ministry aims to collaborate with local governments to connect women with land management opportunities and local business potential, such as traditional crafts and culinary sectors.