Institutional transformation of cattle farmer association in Kebumen to increase their competitiveness in Indonesia

Abstract

Ongole Grade Cattle (PO) in Kebumen has unique characteristics compared to other PO cattle in other regions. Therefore, it has given more benefits to farmers in Kebumen. To maintain its existence, since 2010, Central Java Assessment Institute for Agricultural Technology and local Government in Kebumen have assisted and encouraged cattle farmers to develop an association that will focus on breeding. After three periods, the problems have arisen related to its sustainability and competitiveness in the cattle market in Indonesia. The objective of this study is to formulate a strategy that could solve the problems of the association. This study used primary data obtained from the Focus Group Discussion and in-depth interview. Respondents were purposively selected from the Agricultural Office, extension workers, and other related agencies, as well as the association. Data were analyzed using SWOT analysis. The results show that the first strategy for the association to increase their sustainability and competitiveness is through institutional transformation. The association needs to be managed professionally, market, and benefit-oriented. Therefore, assistance from related agencies is a necessity. By transforming their institution, it is expected that it could increase the competitiveness of PO Cattle from Kebumen in the Indonesian cattle market, maintain the existence of Kebumen’s PO Cattle, as well as increase the income of cattle farmers.