Replanting of smallholder palm oil plantations in Dharmasraya District, West Sumatera Province, Indonesia

Abstract

This study aimed to formulate the steps of replanting preparation to empower the smallholders in palm oil plantation in Dharmasraya District. This study used a descriptive qualitative method with a case study. Primary data were collected by interview and discussion with famers who are the Koperasi Unit Desa (KUD, a rural cooperative institution) members and management, and key informants. Data were analyzed by strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats (SWOT) analysis. Empowerment of the smallholder's palm oil plantations can be carried out through: 1). Empowering of the smallholders' institutions by re-functioning the farmer groups and cooperatives with a new management formation; 2). KUD and farmer groups establish a replanting model (conventional, stage replanting, under planting or intercropping); 3). Preparing a standard operational technical procedure for the approved replanting model; 4). Preparing a budget and time planning for replanting implementation including the immature plantation period; and 5). Arranging the management of plantation after entering the production period. For those activities of the replanting program, the regional government supports are needed by facilitating, supervising and accompanying the implementation. Besides, the KUD requires training and assistance especially in cooperative management, financial management and guidance on implementing the principles of sustainability.