Optimization Of Agricultural Mechanization To Support The Development Of Horticultural Areas In Hulu Sungai Tengah Regency
Keywords:
Agricultural Mechanization, Agricultural Machinery and Equipment, Horticulture, Hulu Sungai Tengah, Optimization StrategyAbstract
Agricultural mechanization is one of the main pillars of agricultural sector modernization that significantly contributes to productivity improvement, labor efficiency, and competitiveness of agricultural products. Hulu Sungai Tengah (HST) Regency in South Kalimantan Province possesses enormous horticultural potential with an area of approximately 8,750 hectares; however, the adoption rate of agricultural machinery and equipment (alsintan) remains relatively low at 42.3%, far below the national average of 68.5%. This study aimed to: (1) analyze the existing condition of horticultural agricultural mechanization in HST Regency; (2) identify inhibiting and driving factors of alsintan adoption; (3) analyze the relationship between mechanization level and farming productivity and efficiency; and (4) formulate a comprehensive mechanization optimization strategy. The study employed a quantitative descriptive method with surveys conducted on 120 horticultural farmers selected through purposive stratified random sampling in four major production sub-districts. Data were analyzed using the Agricultural Mechanization Index (AMI), Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), SWOT analysis, and Quantitative Strategic Planning Matrix (QSPM). Results indicated that the main inhibiting factors for alsintan adoption were capital constraints (78.3%), land topography incompatibility (65.0%), and insufficient technical knowledge of farmers (61.7%). Regression analysis confirmed a significant positive relationship between mechanization level and productivity (r = 0.723; p < 0.01), where farmers with full mechanization achieved 35.6% higher productivity and 28.4% better cost efficiency compared to conventional farming. Five recommended optimization strategies include: development of appropriate technology alsintan based on local wisdom, strengthening of Farmer Group Alsintan Brigade, subsidized financing schemes, farmer human resource capacity building, and development of supporting infrastructure. Integrated strategy implementation is projected to increase horticultural productivity by 35% and reduce production costs by 28% within the next five years.
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