Indonesia Vows Rapid Restoration of Flood-Hit Sumatra Rice Fields

Indonesia's Agriculture Minister, Andi Amran Sulaiman, has pledged to quickly restore rice fields in West Sumatra damaged by recent flooding. He announced the immediate distribution of aid to farmers to prevent a significant drop in production. The minister made the commitment after inspecting affected areas in Pesisir Selatan Regency. He stated that the government will provide rice seeds, fertilizers, and farming equipment to help farmers replant. Officials report that over 1,000 hectares of rice fields were submerged. The flooding could potentially impact national rice supplies if recovery is delayed. This rapid response aims to stabilize food security. Indonesia, a major rice consumer, has been working to increase domestic production and reduce imports.