East Java Melon Harvest Sets Indonesian Record, Signals Agricultural Boom
Anzhu County, East Java, Indonesia – July 21, 2025 – A monumental melon harvest in East Java has not only broken a national record but also underscored the province’s growing dominance in Indonesian melon production. The event, held on July 16th in Getas Village, saw over 1,000 farmers participate, earning certification from the Indonesian World Records Museum (MURI) as the “most participants in a melon harvest event in Indonesia.” This isn’t just a celebration of a successful yield; it’s a signal of a broader agricultural shift, fueled by innovative seed technology and a commitment to supporting local farmers. This is breaking news for the agricultural sector, and a win for Indonesian food security.
East Java Leads the Way in Melon Production
East Java currently accounts for a remarkable 42% of Indonesia’s total melon production. While Nganjuk contributes a smaller 2%, officials see immense potential for growth in regions like Anzhu County. Rudy Prasetia, director of the Plantation Bureau of East Java, highlighted the opportunity, stating that with access to high-quality seeds like Davina F1 and dedicated technical support, farmers could effectively double their production capacity. This surge in output is particularly crucial as consumer demand shifts towards healthier dietary options, with melons like Davina F1 – known for their moderate sweetness and soft flesh – gaining popularity.
Davina F1: The Seed of Change
The heart of this agricultural success story is the Davina F1 melon variety. Developed by Indonesia East-West Seed Company (Red Arrow Brand Seed Manufacturer), Davina F1 boasts a compelling suite of advantages for Indonesian farmers. These include resistance to common local melon viruses, a relatively short growth period of just 55-60 days, suitability for intensive cultivation even on smaller land plots, and robust fruits that withstand handling and transportation – essential for both domestic retail and export markets. Glen Pardid, managing director of the seed company, envisions East Java becoming a premier hub for high-quality melon production, targeting yields of 45 tons per hectare with the support of their field guidance teams.
From Challenges to Opportunity: A Farmer’s Perspective
The impact of Davina F1 is already being felt on the ground. Suhariadi, a farmer in Anzhu, shared his experience: “Planting Davina F1 allows for three-quarter harvests per year, with better yields and quality than previous varieties.” For hundreds of farmers facing the pressures of climate change and fluctuating market conditions, this new variety represents not just a new crop, but a renewed sense of hope and a pathway to increased income. This isn’t simply about boosting production; it’s about empowering communities and building a more resilient agricultural sector.
A Record-Breaking Harvest and a Collaborative Spirit
The MURI certification of the 1,000-person harvest event is a testament to the collaborative spirit driving this agricultural transformation. MURI representative Sri Vidayati emphasized that this is the first time a melon harvest has been recognized as a national record, praising the spectacle of simultaneous harvesting and the strong partnership between farmers and the seed company. Glenn Pardid underscored the importance of demonstrating tangible results, stating, “Farmers need evidence rather than commitment. Through this bumper harvest, we show the real results of Davina F1 and hope to attract more farmers to grow.”
The success in East Java isn’t just a local story; it’s a blueprint for agricultural development across Indonesia. By prioritizing high-quality seeds, providing comprehensive technical support, and fostering collaboration between farmers and agricultural innovators, Indonesia is poised to unlock its full potential as a leading melon producer and a global player in the horticulture industry. This momentum, fueled by the Davina F1 variety, promises a sweeter future for Indonesian farmers and consumers alike, and sets a new standard for sustainable agricultural practices in the region. Stay tuned to archyde.com for continued coverage of this developing story and insights into the future of Indonesian agriculture.
