To date, the programs have helped more than 40 communities in Sumatera and Kalimantan

Leading palm oil-based agribusiness, Indonesia based Golden Agri-Resources (GAR), has recently increased focus on food security and livelihoods programs to support communities where the company operates.

New farming techniques introduced to help farmers generate more income

GAR collaborates with several partners, including world-renowned Wageningen University, to deliver its Alternative Livelihoods and Integrated Ecological Farming Programmes. The programmes provide workshops for villagers in different communities to increase soil fertility using organic fertilizer, resulting in healthier crops.

Local farmers and smallholders are taught good agricultural practice and given access to modern agriculture experts. Farmers are also encouraged to sell in the local market to generate income and helping them fulfil their daily needs.

To date, the programmes have helped more than 40 communities in Sumatera and Kalimantan upgrade their agricultural practices and grow cash crops, ranging from organic vegetables to coffee.

GAR also focuses on environmental protection

GAR is teaching rural communities, farmers and smallholders how to farm with sustainable practices in mind – reducing pressure on forest lands, eliminating the use of fire to open areas for cropping, focusing on water management and implementing regenerative agriculture techniques to maintain healthy soils.