Young, Bold, and Farming: How Indonesia’s Next-Gen Farmers are Reviving Agriculture with Purpose

The agricultural sector stands at a critical inflection point. Across the globe—and acutely in Indonesia—there is a marked decline in youth engagement within agriculture, threatening the long-term sustainability of our food systems. While agriculture continues to be a primary source of employment for over 38 million people, yet nearly 80% of these producers are over the age of 45 (Food and Fertilizer Technology Center, 2023). This aging demographic signals an urgent challenge for the country’s food security and agricultural sustainability. While older generations still dominate the fields and plantations, fewer young people are willing to continue the legacy. Without a new generation of producers, who will feed the next?

Understanding the Decline in Youth Participation in Agriculture

Several internal and external factors explain why fewer young Indonesians are choosing careers in agriculture. Internally, young people face structural limitations such as limited access to land and the rapid conversion of agricultural areas into residential or industrial spaces. Beyond that, there is a lingering perception that agriculture is less prestigious and less promising compared to urban careers. Farming is also heavily exposed to natural and market risks, from crop failure due to climate change to price volatility in the global market. Additionally, the lack of incentives and support systems further discourages youth involvement.

Externally, income instability has made farming an unattractive option. The agricultural sector often struggles to provide consistent and sufficient earnings. At the same time, today's younger generation is presented with a wide variety of opportunities in non-agricultural sectors, especially in cities, which offer better financial prospects and social prestige (Food and Fertilizer Technology Center, 2023).

Yet amidst these challenges, there are young individuals who dare to take a different path—proving that with the right support, innovation, and mindset, agriculture can become a sustainable and rewarding profession.

Redefining Farming: Meet Tony Sihombing, a Young Cocoa Farmer from Aceh

In the heart of Kutacane, Aceh Tenggara—a region famed for its lush cacao plantations—one young cocoa producer is rewriting the story of farming. Tony Sihombing never intended to become a farmer. With a degree in Computer Informatics, he had set his sights on a tech career in Medan. But life took an unexpected turn. The sudden passing of his parents brought him back to his roots, where he inherited the family’s cacao farm.

What could have felt like a setback, Tony embraced as a chance to build something new. Determined to make farming sustainable, he chose to break away from traditional practices and infuse the land with innovation. His return to the farm marked the start of a bold journey—blending modern technology with agriculture to reshape the future of cocoa cultivation.

Looking Ahead: A Future Led by Young Farmer

Reflecting on his journey, Tony remains optimistic about the future of agriculture.

“The future of agriculture is bright for young producers,” he says. “By integrating sustainable practices and leveraging new technologies, we can achieve great success and lead the industry forward.”

His story is more than a personal triumph—it is a call to action, a model for what’s possible when youth are empowered with innovation. As Indonesia faces the looming challenge of an aging producer population, there is an urgent need to empower more young people like Tony. His journey offers a blueprint for reversing the youth exodus from agriculture. With the right ecosystem—training, technology, financing, and market access—young people can thrive in farming. More importantly, they can lead.

Curious about how Koltiva supports young producers and promotes sustainable agriculture? Our team is ready to help you explore solutions tailored to your needs. Talk to our expert today and be part of the movement towards a better future for agriculture.

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Resource:

Iqbal, R., & Arsanti, I. W. (2023). Empowering Indonesian young farmers through Youth Entrepreneurship and Employment Support Services program. Food and Fertilizer Technology Center for the Asian and Pacific Region (FFTC). https://ap.fftc.org.tw/article/3398

Writer: Gusi Ayu Putri Chandrika Sari, Social Media Officer at Koltiva

Featured Farmer: Tony Sihombing, Cocoa Farmer from Aceh, Indonesia

Editor: Tika Sylvia, Chief Marketing Officer at Koltiva

About Writer:

Gusi Ayu Putri Chandrika Sari, serving as Koltiva's dedicated social media Officer, brings an impressive more than 8-year track record in communications, bolstered by a profound enthusiasm for sustainability, technology, and agriculture. Her extensive experience in communications has honed her skills in crafting compelling narratives and engaging content across various digital platforms.