Jakarta, Oct. 4 -- Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman reaffirmed his optimism that Indonesia is on the verge of achieving rice self-sufficiency, citing a surge in production that strengthens national food sovereignty.

"God willing, within the next three months, if there are no major obstacles, we will be able to declare that Indonesia has achieved rice self-sufficiency," Sulaiman said in a statement on Friday in Jakarta.

He said the government continues to promote strategic programs, including the development of new rice fields, rehabilitation of irrigation systems, and improvement of farmer welfare. Citing recent breakthroughs and production gains, Sulaiman stressed that Indonesia will not need to import rice this year.

"God ...