The Governor of East Java, witnessed the signing of the Declaration of Joint Support for Empowering Sugarcane Farmers. It marked a significant milestone for the sugarcane industry, particularly for farmers in the Mount Kelir area. This declaration of support came in the form of a capital loan, with Jatim Ritel RC Credit worth IDR 3 billion and there were Retail and KUR (People's Business Credit) loans offered by the Bank of SMEs in East Java The Governor expressed her appreciation for the technological innovation demonstrated by the Gapoktan Tebu Inti Rosan and PT Inti Rosan Makmur Sentosa Tulungagung. Their success in achieving year-round sugarcane crushing and production was remarkable. She noted that this initiative would result in significant efficiency, as many sugarcane factories in Java typically operate for about 5 to 6 months in a year. She also praised the sugarcane yield produced by PT. Inti Rosan, which stood at 15%, compared to the average sugarcane yield in sugar factories in East Java. Sugarcane yield refers to the sugar content within the sugarcane stalk, expressed as a percentage.
The Governor emphasised that the accomplishments demonstrate that technological innovations in sugarcane planting and processing don't have to originate from large cities or big sugar factories. She highlighted that technological innovation could emerge due to an innovative individual's extraordinary activities. The former Minister of Social Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia also welcomed the joint support declaration for empowering sugarcane farmers. She hoped that with this signing, each partner could provide mutual support. The objective is to produce high-quality sugarcane in the future, creating a healthy, highly competitive agribusiness environment that benefits all parties. Especially in Tulungagung Regency, there are more than 100 sugarcane factories that produce brown sugar. The price of brown sugar can even surpass that of white crystal sugar, making it highly exportable. This centre for sugarcane also aims to meet the sugar needs of the people of Tulungagung and East Java. Previously, the Chair of the Sugarcane Farmers Group Association, mentioned that the formation of this group was established to address the daily challenges faced by farmers and these practices lead to a harvest that aligns with technical standards and milling standards.
