Critical Issues in the Development of Organic Farming Systems in West Sumatra

Abstract

Organic farming has developed rapidly in many regions of Indonesia. The main impetus for this expansion has been the growing societal inclination towards healthier ways of living and a greater awareness of environmental issues. Organic farming represents an agricultural system that emphasizes ecosystem equilibrium, maximizes local resource utilization, and minimizes synthetic inputs. In West Sumatra, organic rice cultivation has emerged as a significant organic agricultural commodity within local communities. This research aimed to explore various supporting factors and problems experienced by organic rice farmers, as well as opportunities to obtain organic certification. This study used a qualitative approach: data collection, data reduction, data presentation, conclusion drawing, and interpretation. Data collection employed interview techniques, key informants, observation, and documentation. Data validation used triangulation. The research results showed: 1) higher independence of organic farmers increases motivation for organic rice cultivation, and adequate experience is also a determining factor for organic farming success, 2) Government roles, such as program consistency, implementation of training and Integrated Pest Management Field Schools (SLPHT), adaptable farmer group institutions and leadership, networking, commodity-related testing/certification, use of information technology, natural and environmental potential, and 3) Problems: product quality variations, land ownership, price fluctuations, and market certainty. Opportunities and strategies towards organic rice certification include: product diversification innovation, Fresh Plant Origin Product Standardization (PSAT), pioneering and modernization of organic rice farming support machines for high-quality rice production