Declining Rice Production in Indonesia: A Case Study of Central Java, Challenges and Food Security Strategies

This study examines the critical issue of declining rice production in Central Java, Indonesia, a province essential to national food security. Rice remains a staple food for approximately 95% of the Indonesian population and holds deep socio-political significance. Despite this, Central Java has faced a steady decrease in rice production over recent years. Between 2018 and 2024, the harvested area declined from 1.82 million to 1.55 million hectares. As a result, total rice output dropped from 10.5 million to 8.89 million tons, representing a 15.3% reduction. This decline stems from a combination of interrelated challenges. Rapid land conversion due to urbanization and infrastructure development, especially in peri-urban zones, has reduced arable land. Climate variability, such as erratic rainfall and El Niño-induced droughts, has disrupted farming schedules and lowered yields. Demographic changes, including an aging farmer population and low youth engagement in agriculture, have also created labor shortages and raised production costs. In addition, inadequate infrastructure, like irrigation systems and post-harvest facilities, alongside gaps in policy implementation, continue to limit productivity improvements. This research employs a qualitative-descriptive approach using secondary data to identify these contributing factors. The findings highlight the urgency for targeted policy responses. Recommended interventions include enforcing land-use regulations, adopting climate-smart agricultural practices, investing in infrastructure, and engaging youth through tailored programs. Localized, participatory policy reforms are also essential to address context-specific needs. These measures are crucial to sustaining rice production in Central Java and ensuring long-term national food security.