In an effort to strengthen regional food security and boost the local agricultural economy, the Perhimpunan Insan Sarjana Pertanian Indonesia (PISPI), led by Prof. Achmad TJachja Nugraha, has officially launched the “100,000 Chili Pepper Planting Movement” in Riau Province.

Through this initiative, PISPI handed over 100,000 chili pepper seedlings to various local institutions, including te Riau Provincial Government, Kodam XIX/Tuanku Tambusai, Polda Riau, and the Roesmin Nurjadin Air Force Base (Lanud RSN).

Prof. Achmad Tjachja Nugraha, who also serves ad a Professor at the Agribusiness Study Program, Faculty of Science and Technology, UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, emphasized that the distribution of seedlings should be viewed as more than just a routine planting activity.

“The 100,000 chili pepper planting movement must not be seen merely as a plantain exercise, but as a strategic economic initiative and a catalyst for national food security. This 100,000 target should mark the beginning of a planned, measurable, and sustainable chili production system in Riau”, stated Prof. Achmad.

Furthermore, Prof. Achmad highlighted the vital role of agricultural scholars, urging alumni of agricultural engineering and agribusiness sidciplines to implement theri academic knowledge directly within society. He encouraged transforming small scale, region based actions into a national movement by encouraging communities to utilize household yards for cultivating daily food essentials such as chili, green onions, and lettuce. 

This collaborative initiative aims to expand the total planting area, elevate local chili production, and reduce Riau’s reliance on supply chains from other regions. By promoting synergy between academia, government agencies, security forces, and local darmers, the Agribusiness Study Program of UIN Jakarta continues to demonstrate its active commitment welfare across Indonesia.