Vice President: Regional Heads Are Like Calcium The Backbone Of The National Economy

JAKARTA - Vice President Ma'ruf Amin said the role of regional heads is a strengthening factor for the agricultural sector as the main strength of the national economy.

During the "Abdi Bakti Tani 2021" award ceremony at the Vice Presidential Palace in Jakarta, the Vice President likened governors, regents and mayors to calcium that strengthens the backbone of the national economy.

"If agriculture is likened to the backbone of the national economy, then the active participation of regional heads is calcium which is an important nutrient in keeping the backbone healthy and strong," said the Vice President, quoted by Antara, Monday, September 13.

In addition, the Vice President continued, regional heads and local government ranks are also required to create innovations and action plans to support the agricultural sector in their regions.

"Governments both at the central and regional levels are required to adapt and innovate in formulating policies and action plans, which can facilitate agricultural heads to remain productive," said Ma'ruf Amin.

The crisis condition of the COVID-19 pandemic is also a moment that requires the central government and local governments to think creatively.

"The pandemic conditions require us to think creatively, create breakthroughs that can make us adapt to the changes caused by the COVID-19 pandemic," he said.

Therefore, the Vice President asked regional heads who won the 2021 Abdi Bakti Tani award to maintain their efforts to support agriculture in their respective regions.

In addition, other local governments are also expected to have a commitment to improve the agricultural sector in the region.

"Without their commitment and creative thinking, the wheels of agricultural development will not be able to turn quickly and produce proud results," said Ma'ruf Amin.