Palembang — A notable moment took place during President Prabowo Subianto’s visit to the Simultaneous Rice Planting Movement across 14 provinces, held in Simpang Pelabuhan Dalam Village, Ogan Ilir, South Sumatra, on Wednesday (April 23). On this occasion, President Prabowo tried his hand at piloting a drone to spread rice seeds.

He also observed the transformation of previously swampy, unproductive land into productive rice fields.

“We’re witnessing the conversion of swampland—reportedly once a crocodile habitat—into fertile rice fields. A total of 105,000 hectares are now being developed using the most advanced agricultural technologies in the world,” said Prabowo.

While testing the drone, Prabowo was accompanied by the Minister of Agriculture and the Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs. He expressed optimism that the revitalized rice fields would boost productivity.

“I personally gave it a try—honestly, I was surprised since it was my first time controlling a drone. This drone, which spreads seeds, can cover 25 hectares in a single day. Previously, with manual labor, it took a day just to handle one hectare. Now, we’re looking at 100,000 hectares becoming productive farmland,” Prabowo explained.

Prabowo further expressed confidence that Indonesia would not only achieve food self-sufficiency but also emerge as a global food powerhouse.

“Indonesia won’t just be self-sufficient—we’ll become a global food barn. We’re already able to support other countries, help our farmers, assist our neighbors. This is something I personally find deeply encouraging and inspiring,” he concluded.