For years, many corn farmers have faced similar challenges: limited access to production inputs, minimal technical support, and most critically is the absence of market certainty. As a result, harvests are often consumed within the household, sold at low prices, or even left to spoil due to lack of market absorption. This situation reflects that some farmers have yet to develop a strong economic orientation in managing their farming activities.
In response to these challenges, TLM Foundation introduced an integrated corn partnership model that not only aims to increase production, but also ensures sustainability, from planting all the way through to market access.
Comprehensive Support From Land Preparation to Harvest
TLM Foundation provides both physical and technical support to farmers. Assistance is delivered in a comprehensive manner, starting from land identification and measurement to land preparation. Farmers are also supported in selecting high quality seeds, as well as in planting and crop maintenance, including fertilization and pest control.
As part of this support, farmers are provided with the BOOM Corn Package, a combination of liquid fertilizer, plant growth regulators (PGR), and pesticides designed to support plant growth and improve overall productivity.
Strengthening Post Harvest Capacity
The post harvest stage is a key focus of this program. The Foundation collaborates with PT BISI International Tbk to provide farmers with training on corn handling, including cleaning, shelling, and drying.
In addition, farmers are trained to create simple shelling tools using pipes as a practical solution at the field level. The Foundation also provides support in the form of plastic tarpaulins for drying and plastic sacks for temporary storage to help maintain the quality of the harvest.
Market Assurance and Input Repayment Scheme
In terms of marketing, the Foundation facilitates the sale of harvests through a partnership with KOPKAR Agro Badam. Through this scheme, farmers are able to sell their produce with greater certainty and at relatively stable prices.
In addition, this system allows farmers to repay the agreed production input loans from the beginning, creating a more sustainable farming cycle.
Program Reach
The integrated corn partnership program has been implemented across 19 supported villages in 4 districts, with the following progress: Number of farmers involved: 431, Total cultivated land area: 121.44 hectares
corn harvest results of farmer groups in Alor
corn harvest results of farmer groups in TTS
a group member is harvesting corn in ALor
a group member in TTS shows the corn he harvested
Compared to previous conditions, clear improvements can be seen in the field, from farming practices to better post harvest handling. As a result, the risk of post harvest losses can be reduced. Beyond that, the program has helped shift farmers' mindset from subsistence farming toward a more market oriented approach, with better planning and greater market certainty.
Growing a More Sustainable Future
Looking ahead, this partnership model is expected to be further developed and replicated in other areas. Collaboration between farmers, supporting organizations, and industry partners is key to building a more productive, efficient, and sustainable agricultural system. With an integrated approach, the program not only improves harvest outcomes, but also strengthens farmers' economic resilience in the long term.
