Analyzing Farmers’ Engagement with Sustainable Agricultural Policies: Insights from Indonesia’s LP2B Initiatives

Abstract

The agricultural sector in Indonesia is experiencing a growing trend of converting land for non-agricultural purposes owing to economic and demographic growth. The government implemented Law No. 41 of 2009, which specifically addresses Perlindungan Lahan Pertanian Pangan Berkelanjutan (PLP2B). Sukabumi Regency in West Java proactively addressed the issue by implementing Regional Regulation Number 08 of 2014, specifically designed to manage Lahan Pertanian Pangan Berkelanjutan (LP2B). This study focuses on the responses of farmers in the Pelabuhan Ratu District to identify LP2B locations within the regency. Information was collected through interviews with the 36 farmers. These farmers were divided into six clusters based on the distribution of LP2B. The cluster assignment was chosen based on the close physical proximity of the places. Farmers were selected randomly in rice field locations during the researcher’s field visits to the LP2B site. Subsequently, the data were subjected to descriptive analyses. The findings indicate that farmers residing in lowland regions near densely populated areas frequently engage in sharecropping arrangements and have a poor comprehension of LP2B. Conversely, farmers residing in distant highland areas exhibited a superior understanding. The specific physiographic characteristics of the area and the existence of farmer groups shaped the variation in knowledge. To improve future implementation, policymakers should ensure uniform distribution of policies throughout all regions and strengthen farmer groups. This strategic approach not only promotes awareness, but also fosters sustainable agricultural practices, ensuring the effectiveness of LP2B in preserving Indonesia's agricultural landscape.