Kementerian Pertahanan RI aims to develop a "food estate" program as a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Merauke, Papua, discussed during a meeting between Deputy Minister of Defense M Herindra and Merauke Regent Romanus Mbaraka. The focus of the discussion was on managing the area and developing idle land in Merauke. Herindra emphasized Merauke's strategic geographical location, making it ideal for a food estate. He stressed the importance of food security alongside military strength, especially in the face of current and future global challenges. The Ministry of Defense seeks to enhance food security to anticipate global impacts in the region, recognizing the vulnerability without adequate food reserves. Collaborating with relevant ministries, including Public Works and Housing, Agriculture, Forestry and Environment, and State-Owned Enterprises, the Ministry plans to establish the food estate program as an SEZ in Merauke. This initiative aims to support the government's efforts in ensuring effective food reserves in Merauke, potentially benefiting the food industry significantly, including corn, cassava, and cattle farming. The meeting involved key figures from the Ministry of Defense, highlighting the commitment to national food security, with discussions led by Deputy Minister Herindra and supported by various military officials and special assistants.

Source: https://nasional.kompas.com/read/2024/04/01/20364221/kemenhan-ingin-kembangkan-food-estate-sebagai-kawasan-ekonomi-khusus-di