MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, REMBANG – Muhammadiyah has expressed strong support for a research-based approach to modern agriculture, aiming to significantly increase crop yields.
This commitment was highlighted through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Muhammadiyah Council for Higher Education, Research, and Development and PT Wadah Karya Rembang on Monday (August 12). This partnership will focus on transforming idle land into productive sugarcane farms.
The Chairperson of the Muhammadiyah Council for Higher Education, Research, and Development Prof. Bambang Setiaji explained that Muhammadiyah role in this collaboration centers on research and development. The council will conduct in-depth studies on sugarcane cultivation, including seed selection, soil conservation, and optimal planting techniques.
“Muhammadiyah network of 20 agricultural and horticultural faculties will be instrumental in this research,” said Prof. Bambang.
To gain valuable insights and best practices, the Council plans to send a study group to Thailand, a global leader in sugar exports. The Southeast Asian nation’s agricultural expertise and geographical proximity make it an ideal location for this comparative study.
Besides, Muhammadiyah is also committed to supporting farmers financially. The organization plans to establish specialized banking services tailored to the unique financial needs of the agricultural sector, addressing challenges such as uneven income cycles.