When we think about food sources, vast rice fields, fertile farmland, or abundant oceans often come to mind. However, we often overlook wetlands, despite their crucial role in feeding billions of people worldwide. As dynamic ecosystems where land and water intersect, wetlands have long fascinated scientists and agricultural experts.
These unique landscapes are not only biodiversity hotspots and natural carbon sinks but also hold immense potential for sustainable farming. Harnessing their fertility while overcoming environmental challenges requires innovation and collaboration.
Wetlands, characterised by the intersection of aquatic and terrestrial environments, have long intrigued researchers and agricultural experts. Wetlands International states that these unique ecosystems offer considerable value, functioning as crucial biodiversity hotspots, natural carbon sinks, and fertile soils conducive to sustainable agricultural practices. The conversion of these fertile yet difficult conditions into productive agricultural systems requires creativity and cooperative efforts. Indonesia encompasses roughly 40.5 million hectares of wetlands, which constitutes about 20% of the nation’s overall land area. This makes wetlands, such as peatland and swampland, an important resource for improving national food security.
Recognising this potential, the Tay Juhana Foundation (TJF) convened TJF Sharing Session (TSS) #1, with the theme Farming in Wetlands, on March 13, 2025. The event brought together farmers, researchers, and community leaders to explore the opportunities, best practices, and challenges of wetland-based farming. The interactive event included farmers, researchers, and community leaders, providing practical experiences and scientific insights on the role of wetlands in fostering resilient and productive agriculture.
The discussion starts with story sharing from Hermawan, a rice farmer from Rambutan Village in South Sumatra who began cultivating peatland two years ago when the soil was compact, highly acidic, and nearly barren. With the support of the Centre for International Forestry Research—World Agroforestry (CIFOR-ICRAF) in South Sumatra, Hermawan implemented zero-burning techniques, built dams and canals for effective water management, and converted weeds and livestock waste into nutrient-rich compost.
His dedication paid off; rice production surged from 2.3 to 5 tonnes per hectare. More importantly, his success has inspired fellow farmers to adopt similar sustainable practices, proving that environmentally friendly farming can also be profitable.
The second discussion is carried out by Dedek Putri Mufarroha, the SLAI (Suboptimal Land Agriculture Initiative) Enumerator. Kampung Gambut, located in North Pontianak, West Kalimantan, is a successful village with vast vegetable fields stretching as far as the eye can see. Farmers in this area view innovation and open communication as important to their success. The village’s transformation into a leading vegetable grower can be attributed in part to the leadership of local cooperative head Irwansyah, who has transformed the hamlet into a major crop provider.
Farmers in Kampung Gambut learn from one another, adopting techniques such as using dolomite to regulate soil acidity. They understand that collective effort, rather than reliance on outside help, drives progress. However, challenges remain. Despite harvesting 7–8 tonnes of vegetables daily, market prices often fail to reflect their hard work.
Lastly, we discuss the scientific explanation about sustainable farming on wetland. This topic is presented by Rabbirl Yarham Mahardika, who emphasises the extensive historical and scientific relevance of tropical peatlands. A study conducted by Monika Ruwaimana et al. (2020) highlights a significant contrast between the comparatively young coastal peatlands in Rasau Jaya and the centuries-old interior peatlands in Kapuas Hulu, with some dating back approximately 49,600 years.
Beyond their geological significance, peatlands serve as vital habitats for endangered species and function as crucial carbon sinks. However, without proper water management and sustainable practices, these ecosystems face rapid degradation. Protecting peatlands is not just about conservation. It is a fundamental step toward strengthening climate resilience and securing food systems for future generations.
Wetlands offer immense potential for agriculture, supporting rice, sago, and horticultural crops while providing a consistent water supply for aquaculture and biodiversity that enhances agroforestry and polyculture systems. The key takeaway from the TSS event was clear: sustainable wetland agriculture requires continuous innovation, adaptation, and collaboration. It is about finding harmony between nature and human needs. The escalation of climate uncertainty, indigenous wisdom, collective knowledge, and novel methodologies are proving essential for building resilience.
To explore the discussion in more detail, feel free to rewatch the full session through the following link: TJF Sharing Session 2025 – Bertani di Lahan Basah
