JAKARTA – The Minister of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions (Mendes PDT), Yandri Susanto, received an official audience from the Vice Regent of Malang, Lathifah Shohib, at his office on Tuesday (September 8, 2026).

During the meeting, Vice Regent Lathifah presented the economic potential of Malang Regency, highlighting the high-quality citrus production in Kucur Village, Dau District, which Minister Yandri had previously visited.

"In addition to citrus, our regency boasts significant potential in corn and catfish production," Vice Regent Lathifah stated.

Consequently, Vice Regent Lathifah expressed hopes for strategic collaboration with Kemendes PDT to boost these local commodities.

She proposed establishing downstream processing and industrialization initiatives for these commodities to maximize the economic benefits for local communities.

Additionally, she outlined other primary regional assets, including premium tuna production and tobacco cultivation across the regency.

Minister Yandri concurred on the necessity of downstream citrus processing in Kucur Village, noting the commodity's exceptional quality and taste profile.

"It is truly unfortunate that citrus prices plummet during peak harvest seasons. Collaborative solutions are imperative to overcome this challenge," Minister Yandri noted.

Minister Yandri explained that downstream industrialization ensures optimal utilization of agricultural yields while stabilizing market prices. As a result, farmers can bypass middlemen (tengkulak) and supply products directly to industrial buyers.

He recommended that villages across Dau District unite to establish an Inter-Village Business Entity (BUM Desa Bersama), which would act as an off-taker for the region's citrus yield.

However, he emphasized that product quality must consistently meet market standards to compete in broader markets, including potential export destinations.

"Maintaining a stable supply chain is equally critical to meeting market demand moving forward," Minister Yandri added.

Accompanying Minister Yandri during the audience were Secretary-General Taufik Madjid, Director General of PEID Tabrani, Head of BPI Mulyadin Malik, Head of BPSDM Agustomo Masik, along with Special Staff members Fahad Attamimi and Yahdil Abdi Harahap.

Photo: Angga/Kemendes PDT 
Text: Firman/Kemendes PDT