Indonesia begins exporting corn to Malaysia

On June 5, 2025, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto officially launched the first export of corn from the Bengkayang district of West Kalimantan province to Malaysia. The ceremony was part of a corn harvest event that was held simultaneously in several regions of the country. Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Widjaja said that the president would personally oversee the shipment of the crop to Kuching, Malaysia.

The event was a significant event for West Kalimantan’s agricultural sector, as it was the first time that local corn was being exported to the international market. The president was joined by National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo and representatives from several ministries. Widjaja said the police chief had visited Bengkayang to assess the readiness for the harvest and ensure proper organization of the export.

During the visit, the President also opened the Pangan Merah Putih corn warehouse and drying plant on Jalan Bukit Tinggi in Sebalo village, Bengkayang district. The facility has a storage capacity of up to 5,000 tons and a drying capacity of up to 300 tons of corn per day. It is expected to become a key distribution center for local corn, facilitate agricultural processing, and increase the economic value of the region’s agricultural sector.

The corn export to Malaysia is part of Indonesia’s strategy to expand its presence in international markets. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, a total of 27,000 tons of corn are planned to be exported in June, highlighting the country’s growing agricultural potential. The first shipment from Bengkayang marks the start of regular shipments that will strengthen economic ties with Malaysia. The move also supports Indonesia’s food security and promotes the development of local farmers.

Indonesia’s potential for corn exports was highlighted as early as 2022, when the country’s surplus production reached 3 million tonnes, according to the State Logistics Board (Bulog). Bulog buys corn directly from farmers and plans to expand exports, including through the development of drying centers.

Tags: corn, Indonesia, Malaysia