Chairman of TNC IPB University Explains Gotong Royong as the Key to Successful Pest Control
Chairman of the Farmer and Fisherman Center (TNC) IPB University, Prof Hermanu Triwidodo gave an insightful lecture through the Technical Guidance and Socialisation of Propaktani webinar with the material “Sundep or Beluk (Rice Stem Borer) Pest Control” on 17/11.
On this occasion, Prof Hermanu gave an introduction regarding the difference between attacks on rice during the vegetative period called ‘sundep’ and the generative period called ‘beluk’. In addition, he also mentioned the various rice stem borers that cause symptoms, with the yellow rice stem borer as the main focus, especially in the lowlands.
“The yellow rice stem borer has eggs covered in brownish fine hairs, pupae have white spots, and the moth is yellow with a clear spot in the centre,” he explained, giving a detailed description of the borer’s characteristics.
In the context of control, Prof Hermanu discussed various methods, such as the use of insecticides, parasitoids, predators, pheromone traps, egg cluster picking, and light traps. However, he also emphasised the importance of the IPM (Integrated Pest Management) approach with 4Ps, namely deterrence, restraint, monitoring, and suppression.
“The successful control of Plant Disturbing Organisms (Pests) in an area can be done with pre-emptive control measures. The responsibility for pest control lies with the farmers. Our responsibility is how to pass on our knowledge to fellow farmers and encourage this activity to become a joint activity carried out by everyone,” he said.
In voicing his personal dream, Prof Hermanu touched on the economic aspects of farmers. In addition, he also expressed his concern for the economic conditions of agricultural actors.
“If in the nursery the price of one egg is 20,000 rupiah, it would not be a pity to give 500 rupiah to younger siblings and school children per one egg for their pocket money,” he said.
Prof Hermanu highlighted agricultural pests that do not recognise administrative boundaries. Therefore, he invited all parties to unite and strengthen togetherness in maintaining the sustainability of agriculture in Indonesia.
“The problem is how we can encourage this gotong royong to become a mass movement. Togetherness or gotong royong is the determinant of successful pest control. Our task is how we can transmit and encourage farmers to do it together, so that the habit of gathering egg groups becomes part of the ritual of rice cultivation,” he explained.
The event, organised by the Directorate General of Food Crops, Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Indonesia, was held online through Zoom Meeting and YouTube and was attended by 1378 participants, consisting of farmers, extension workers, POPT (Plant Disorder Organism Control Officers), academics, and communities throughout Indonesia. (Lp) (IAAS/RUM)
