Minister of Agriculture Requests Police to Take Firm Action Against Individuals Charging Fees for Agricultural Equipment Aid
Indonesian Minister of Agriculture, Andi Amran Sulaiman, recently expressed his disappointment regarding the distribution of agricultural machinery aid (alsintan). He received reports that there are still individuals charging fees to farmers to obtain aid that should be provided free of charge by the government.
The aid in question includes tractors, combine harvesters, water pumps, and various other agricultural support tools. The central government has allocated these tools to increase the productivity of farmers throughout Indonesia without charging any fees to the beneficiaries.
In his statement, Amran emphasized that the act of charging such fees is a serious violation. He even requested the Chief of the Indonesian National Police to intervene directly and take firm action against any individuals or field managers proven to be engaging in such illegal levy practices.
This firm step was taken to ensure that government aid truly reaches the farmers in need without any obstacles. Amran hopes that stricter supervision can prevent the abuse of authority at the aid distribution level.
The government remains committed to supporting the welfare of farmers through the provision of adequate production facilities. It is hoped that with this firm action, the future distribution of agricultural equipment aid can be more transparent and accurately targeted for farmers in Indonesia.