Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo Receives Agricola Medal from FAO: A Prestigious Recognition for National Food Security

Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo was honored with the prestigious Agricola Medal by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), presented by FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu on 30 September 2024. The ceremony took place at the State Palace in Jakarta and was attended by several high-ranking government officials, including Foreign Minister, Retno Marsudi, Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning, Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono, Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, and Head of the National Food Agency, Arief Prasetyo Adi.

The Agricola Medal represents the highest honor awarded by FAO, conferred upon national leaders who have made substantial contributions to the advancement of food security. This distinguished award acknowledges significant efforts in promoting sustainable agricultural practices, enhancing food production and improving nutrition on a national and global scale. Indonesia last received the Agricola Medal 39 years ago, when President Soeharto was recognized for his impactful initiatives within the agricultural sector.

This recognition highlights the critical role of leadership in fostering food security and underscores the importance of national policies in supporting sustainable agricultural development. The award serves not only as a tribute to individual leaders but also as a reaffirmation of the ongoing commitment to achieving global food security objectives.

Dibyana Galih Prakasita, representing the World Food Forum (WFF) Indonesia Chapter, attended the ceremony and emphasized the significance of this event for the youth movement in the food sector in Indonesia. This occasion highlighted the vital role that young leaders play in shaping sustainable agrifood systems and addressing pressing challenges related to food security. By engaging in innovative practices and advocating for sustainable solutions, the youth movement is pivotal in transforming Indonesia's approach to food production and consumption.

In his speech, President Jokowi emphasized that the award is not only for him but also for the farmers of Indonesia who have worked tirelessly to advance the agricultural sector and ensure the nation's food security. He highlighted that this achievement is the result of collective efforts involving various segments of society, particularly the farmers, who are the backbone of national food security.

This recognition underscores Indonesia's commitment and success in achieving sustainable food security, further solidifying the country's position on the global stage as a nation dedicated to ensuring food availability for its people despite various global challenges. As part of the WFF Indonesia Chapter, we are proud to witness this historic moment and will continue to support ongoing efforts in food security both in Indonesia and around the world.