BONTANG – PT Kaltim Nitrate Indonesia (KNI) in Bontang carried out a collaborative initiative with Batalyon Arhanud 7/ABC Bontang and the Bontang City Government to strengthen local food security.

Through a program called Pertanian Mandiri untuk Wujudkan Ketahanan Pangan (TAMAN KETAPANG), PT KNI will plant 1,500 Calina (California) papaya seedlings.

Representing the Senior Site Management of PT KNI, Agus Pratikno stated that this activity reflects efforts to build self‑reliance in food security and improve community nutrition.

“Both at the national and regional levels, we are carrying out the mandate to support the implementation of the national food security program being developed throughout Indonesia,” he explained.

The initiation of this program is a concrete step by the company to collaborate with stakeholders across Bontang City, with the hope that it can serve as an alternative solution and encourage consistency in the development of horticultural agriculture.

“It is hoped that this initiative will increase the understanding and awareness of various stakeholders regarding the importance of ensuring sufficient and nutritious food availability for the community,” he explained.

The collaborative activity between PT KNI, Batalyon Arhanud 7/ABC Bontang, and the Bontang City Government (Syakurah/Radar Bontang) is carried out on a one‑hectare demonstration plot located on the grounds of Batalyon Arhanud 7/ABC Bontang. All cultivation processes are conducted using organic methods, with the expectation of producing the highest‑quality agricultural products.

The Commander of Batalyon Arhanud 7/ABC Bontang, Lieutenant Colonel Arh. Ragil Setyo Yulianto, stated that the collaboration does not only involve planting activities, but also includes technical training that, when applied, can produce quality agricultural products.

“We received knowledge on land preparation, land management, and the production of organic fertilizer,” he said.

He expressed his appreciation to PT KNI for this collaboration and to the Bontang City Government for its support. He added that the synergy will continue as part of ongoing efforts to ensure the success of the national food security and food self‑sufficiency programs promoted by the Government of the Republic of Indonesia.

“Hopefully this initiative brings meaningful benefits to the people of Bontang,” he concluded.

The collaborative activity between PT KNI, Batalyon Arhanud 7/ABC Bontang, and the Bontang City Government (Syakurah/Radar Bontang). Representing the Acting Mayor of Bontang, the Regional Secretary of Bontang, Aji Erlynawati, stated that this initiative reflects the importance of food security and the optimization of available resources.

“I hope this will lead to sustainable food self‑sufficiency and improved community nutrition,” she said.

The Bontang City Government appreciates the efforts of PT KNI as part of the defense industry under the Ministry of Defense. It is hoped that this program will enhance the understanding and awareness of various stakeholders regarding the importance of providing sufficient, nutritious, and affordable food for the community.