Deli Serdang Boosts Horticulture Growth and Empowers Young Farmers in STM Hulu

DELI SERDANG | INDATANEWS.COM - The horticultural sector in STM Hulu District, Deli Serdang Regency, North Sumatra, is receiving increasing attention from the regional government. The area is considered one of the most promising agricultural zones with strong potential to drive a sustainable, agriculture-based local economy. As a result, the government is accelerating strategic programs to strengthen crop production while encouraging greater youth participation in farming.

The initiative was highlighted during a community dialogue forum in Liang Pematang Village under the theme "Empowering Millennial Farmers", organized by the Development Assistance Network (JPKP) of Deli Serdang on Friday, June 12, 2026.

Direct Dialogue with Farmers

Deputy Regent of Deli Serdang, Lom Lom Suwondo, engaged directly with farmers during the discussion, listening to their concerns and challenges. Key issues included the cultivation of priority commodities such as shallots and chilies, as well as difficulties in post-harvest marketing and distribution.

Data-Driven Agricultural Management and Market Access

Lom Lom Suwondo emphasized that shallots and chilies hold strong economic value and market potential. However, optimizing this potential requires accurate and integrated agricultural data systems.

"We want all farmers to be properly recorded—what they plant, how large their land is, and when they harvest. With this data, the government can ensure that local harvests are absorbed by the market," he said.

The regional government is currently conducting comprehensive agricultural data collection to strengthen supply chains and improve market integration. Extension services at the village level are also being intensified.

Strengthening Millennial Farmers and Sustainable Cooperation

Head of the Deli Serdang Agriculture Office, Elina Sari, stated that STM Hulu is one of the most promising horticultural regions. The government has distributed various farming inputs, including seeds, shallot seedlings, and production facilities to boost yields.

A key focus is also placed on generational renewal through the "Millennial Farmers" program targeting youth aged 19–39, aimed at developing tech-savvy farmers capable of building agribusiness models.

"Farmers are the heroes of food security. We are ready to support young people who want to enter the agricultural sector," she said.

Meanwhile, JPKP Deli Serdang Deputy Chairperson Pujian Tarigan highlighted that cross-sector collaboration is essential to building a sustainable agricultural ecosystem and improving farmers' welfare. (IDNC)

REPORTER: Edi Saputra | EDITOR: Fik Sagala

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