The Focus Group Discussion on Preparing Sustainable Principles for the Development of Natural Rubber and Coconut Commodities in West Kalimantan was held at the Disbunnak Office. Photo: USAID SEGAR

Pontianak – West Kalimantan Province has allocated extensive land for sustainable plantation development, with palm oil leading the commodities followed by rubber, coconut, cocoa, pepper, and coffee. In 2021, 591,710 hectares were designated for rubber production, while 90,052 hectares were for coconut.

Rubber and coconut, beyond their economic significance, significantly contribute to local revenue (PAD), employment, and engage numerous independent farmers. Hence, the focus remains on encouraging their sustainable production.

Recognizing their potential, the USAID Sustainable Environmental Governance Across Regions (SEGAR) program collaborates with the West Kalimantan Provincial Government to develop sustainable guidelines for rubber and coconut. Governor's Decree Number 159 of 2021 affirms this commitment, yet consistent guidelines are crucial to ensure sustainability throughout their supply chains.

To address this, USAID SEGAR facilitated a guiding document on sustainable commodity principles, aimed at aiding the provincial government, businesses, independent farmers, and stakeholders in sustainable rubber and coconut production in West Kalimantan. Emphasizing farmer group management, environmental preservation, sustainable cultivation, processing, and partnerships in the supply chain and marketing, this document serves as a comprehensive reference.

A Focus Group Discussion (FGD) hosted by the West Kalimantan Province Plantation and Livestock Service, supported by USAID SEGAR on October 26, 2023, emphasized the importance of implementing sustainability aspects in rubber and coconut production. Key government institutions, including Bappeda, Disbunnak, DLHK, DPMD, Disperindag ESDM, and academic partners, provided crucial insights for the sustainability principles document.

Heronimus Hero, S.P., M.Si, Head of the West Kalimantan Province Disbunnak, highlighted the essential role of these commodities in livelihoods, emphasizing the need for practical strategies.

"The sustainability of coconut is relatively good in West Kalimantan, while rubber significantly impacts the local economy," stated Heronimus. He emphasized the regional government's steadfast commitment to advancing sustainable rubber and coconut plantations despite existing challenges.

The subsequent workshop on November 2, 2023, brought together the private sector involved in rubber and coconut production. This workshop aimed to gather recommendations and refine the final draft of sustainability principles. The goal is for this draft to gain acceptance among stakeholders, ensuring continued monitoring of sustainability standards in rubber and coconut production.