The research matters because many farmer groups in Indonesia remain administratively active but functionally weak. They often serve as channels for government assistance rather than as independent economic institutions. In a period marked by rapid technological change, market competition, and price volatility, farmer groups must operate as professional organizations capable of negotiating markets and adopting innovation. The experience of the Maju Mandiri Farmers Group in Bantaeng offers a practical model for rural agricultural development.
Why Institutional Strengthening Matters
Agriculture in rural Indonesia faces several structural challenges:
- Limited access to market information
- Dependence on long distribution chains
- Traditional production tools
- Weak bargaining power
In Bonto Tallasa Village, farmer groups existed but had not yet fully optimized their role as economic institutions. According to Sahlan from Universitas Muhammadiyah Makassar, institutional strengthening is not merely about forming a group structure. It involves improving communication systems, market access, technology usage, and collaboration among members.
The research places farmer groups at the center of agribusiness transformation. When institutions are strong, farmers can collectively respond to technological and marketing developments instead of acting individually with limited leverage.
How the Study Was Conducted
The research was carried out in Bonto Tallasa Village, Ulu Ere District, Bantaeng Regency. The authors selected the Maju Mandiri Farmers Group as a case study because of its active participation and agricultural potential.
Key elements of the methodology:
- Research design: Descriptive study with quantitative and qualitative analysis
- Participants: 22 members of the Maju Mandiri Farmers Group
- Data collection: Field observation, guided interviews, and document review
- Analysis: Evaluation of institutional capacity, communication flow, marketing channels, and technology implementation
All members of the selected farmer group were surveyed using a census approach. This ensured a complete representation of the group’s internal dynamics.
Three Pillars of Institutional Strengthening
The study identifies three major channels that improved the performance of the Maju Mandiri Farmers Group.
1. Information and Communication Systems
The group shifted from traditional communication methods to digital platforms. Farmers began using:
- Mobile phones for coordination
- Email for formal communication
- Internet access for market information
- Digital tools for knowledge sharing
Local government support, including internet access initiatives, accelerated this transition.
Dr. Jumiati from Universitas Muhammadiyah Makassar explains that improved communication enables faster decision-making and better access to agricultural innovation. Strong internal communication also builds trust and social capital within the group.
2. Marketing Channel Reform
One of the most significant changes involved restructuring marketing flows.
Previously, farmers relied on long chains of intermediaries. This reduced their profit margins and weakened their bargaining position. Through collective marketing strategies, the Maju Mandiri Farmers Group:
- Shortened distribution channels
- Reduced transaction costs
- Improved price negotiation
- Increased income stability
The study emphasizes that farmer groups can function as strategic distribution hubs. When marketing is managed collectively, farmers gain greater control over pricing and supply management.
3. Agricultural Technology Adoption
Technology adoption produced visible economic benefits. The strengthening process included:
Technology Training
- Agricultural extension sessions
- Training in the use of tractors and harvesting equipment
Infrastructure Support
- Procurement of tractors
- Introduction of harvesting machinery
- Improved irrigation facilities
Application and Monitoring
- Machine-based land preparation
- Efficient irrigation techniques
- Regular evaluation of production outcomes
The use of modern agricultural machinery reduced labor intensity and shortened production cycles. Farmers reported improved efficiency and better crop management.
According to Sahlan of Universitas Muhammadiyah Makassar, technology adoption must be integrated with institutional capacity. Tools alone do not transform agriculture. Institutions must support training, coordination, and monitoring.
Measurable Outcomes
The institutional strengthening of the Maju Mandiri Farmers Group resulted in:
- Increased farmer income
- Greater production efficiency
- Higher crop quality and yield
- Faster access to market information
- Stronger internal cooperation
Farmers became more adaptive to market fluctuations and technological change. The integration of communication systems, marketing strategies, and agricultural technology created a more resilient rural agribusiness model.
Broader Implications for Rural Development
The findings offer important lessons for policymakers, agricultural agencies, and rural development planners.
- Technology programs must include training and institutional support.
- Farmer groups should be empowered as economic institutions, not only administrative units.
- Shorter marketing chains increase rural income retention.
- Digital literacy enhances competitiveness in agriculture.
The case of Bonto Tallasa Village demonstrates that strengthening farmer institutions can directly improve welfare without relying solely on subsidies.
Dr. Jumiati notes that “institutional capacity determines whether farmers can compete in an increasingly modern agribusiness system.” Her perspective from Universitas Muhammadiyah Makassar underscores the need for sustainable empowerment rather than short-term assistance.
A Replicable Model
The Maju Mandiri Farmers Group provides a scalable framework:
- Build strong communication systems
- Organize collective marketing
- Integrate modern agricultural tools
- Conduct regular monitoring and evaluation
This model can be adapted to other rural areas in Indonesia with similar agricultural characteristics.
As globalization intensifies and agricultural markets become more competitive, institutional strength becomes as important as land and capital. Bonto Tallasa Village illustrates how organized farmers, supported by technology and structured marketing systems, can increase productivity and improve livelihoods.
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