GAYO LUES | insetgalusnews.com | The Head of the Plantation Division at the Gayo Lues Agriculture Office, Ridwansyah SP, stated that Gayo Lues Regency holds significant potential in the agricultural sector, particularly in plantation commodities.
The region’s unique geographical conditions, with elevations ranging from 400 to 2,500 meters above sea level, make it ideal for a variety of high-value crops.
“Of the 11 districts in Gayo Lues, at least seven are highly suitable for developing Arabica coffee, as most lie above 800 meters,” Ridwansyah said on Monday (November 10, 2025).
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He explained that the cool highland temperatures in Gayo Lues support the growth of Arabica coffee, vegetables, and various mountain fruits. Based on its topographical characteristics, the region can be divided into two main agricultural zones:
- Lowlands (400–800 masl): Suitable for Robusta coffee, cocoa, and coconut, all of which have strong development potential.
- Highlands (800–2,500 masl): Ideal for Arabica coffee, tea, potatoes, carrots, and other highland vegetables.
“More than 70 percent of our region is highland. That’s why future agricultural development will focus on flagship commodities such as Gayo Arabica coffee, which is already widely recognized, as well as high-value horticultural crops,” he added.
Ridwansyah emphasized the importance of matching crop types to land elevation to increase productivity and prevent crop failure. He described elevation-based zoning as an effective strategy to maximize agricultural output.
“Farmers must know the elevation of their land because it determines which crops are most suitable. With this approach, yields can be significantly improved,” he said.
He added that the Gayo Lues Agriculture Office will continue to monitor and support agricultural development based on each area’s potential.
“We have tremendous potential. If managed properly, agriculture can become the main driver of the local economy,” he stressed.
Ridwansyah also recommended Arabica coffee for areas above 800 meters due to its strong market demand and promising prices. For areas between 600 and 1,000 meters, farmers are advised to plant Robusta coffee.
“Today, Arabica coffee sells for about Rp70,000 per bambu gabah, with the lowest price still around Rp42,000 in 2022,” he noted.
He further said that the Agriculture Office remains open to public proposals for programs tailored to local potential.
“Although regional budgets are limited, we continue to push for community proposals to be submitted to the central ministry,” he said.
Redaksi | insetgalusnews
