inp.polri.go.id - Tuban. President Prabowo Subianto emphasized that food security is the primary foundation for a nation's security and sustainability. In his remarks in Tuban Regency, East Java Province, on Saturday, May 16, 2026, the President stated that no country can survive without safe, smooth, and sustainable food production.

"I studied history, I studied nation-building. And what I learned is that it is impossible for a nation to survive without smooth, safe, and sustainable food production," highlighted the President.

Thus, he expressed his appreciation to all parties who have worked to safeguard the national food sector. From the emotional bond formed while joining a farmers' organization, the Head of State understood firsthand the strategic role of farmers in the nation's life.

On that occasion, the President also shared his experiences as a combat troop commander. From that experience, the President assessed that food is not only an economic issue, but also concerns national defense.

"If there's rice, we calculate how many days it will last. If the rice lasts for five days, then we operate for five days. If the rice lasts for 14 days, then we operate for 14 days. Imagine, my friends, if there's no rice. If there's no rice, the military would have a hard time operating," said the President.

The President also recalled how farmers in the villages supported the nation's struggle during the war of independence. According to the President, community support through simple food supplies was a major strength for the military and state apparatus at that time.

"When I trained in the villages, the villagers came out. They fed us, gave us water. Even though their lives were very difficult. If they had bananas, they gave us bananas. If they had sweet potatoes, they gave us sweet potatoes. If they had cassava, they gave us cassava, they gave cassava," the President recalled.

Furthermore, the President emphasized that the success of national food self-sufficiency and security cannot be achieved without the synergy of all elements of the nation. President Prabowo also expressed his appreciation to all parties who supported strengthening the food sector.

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