On November 24, 2025, the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands hosted a sharing session focused on advancing agroforestry practices in Indonesia. The event, held at the Library of Erasmus Huis in Jakarta, aimed to disseminate knowledge, promote effective strategies, and foster a deeper understanding of agroforestry production systems and value chains within the country.
Advancing Agroforestry in Indonesia
Approximately 60 participants – representing government agencies, private sector companies, non-governmental organizations, and research institutions – attended the session. The event was opened by Ambassador Marc Gerritsen and concluded with closing remarks from Deputy Ambassador Adriaan Palm, creating a platform for collaborative learning, open discussion, and networking.
Presentations from four speakers with diverse expertise explored strategies for scaling up agroforestry initiatives, strengthening related value chains, and identifying funding opportunities at the intersection of agroforestry, forest conservation, and landscape restoration.
Edi Purwanto, Director of Tropenbos Indonesia, presented findings from a recent study and working group, highlighting pathways for mainstreaming agroforestry. Chandra Panjiwibowo, Senior Director for Asia Pacific at Rainforest Alliance, shared lessons learned from the Dutch-funded Transforming the Cocoa Sector in Indonesia Through Value Addition for Smallholders (TRACTIONS) project. Iman Budi Utama, Innovative Finance Advisor of SNV/Dutch Fund for Climate and Development (DFCD), outlined available financing instruments for climate-resilient and nature-based businesses. Finally, Willie Smits, Founder of the Masarang Foundation, discussed plans to expand sugar palm (Arenga pinnata) agroforestry, an initiative supported by the Indonesian government.
Participants expressed enthusiasm for the session’s format, describing it as informative, practical, and relevant to the challenges facing agroforestry development. The event also facilitated connections and potential collaborations among stakeholders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the primary goal of the sharing session?
The primary goal was to disseminate lessons learned, promote best practices, and deepen the collective understanding of agroforestry production systems and value chains in Indonesia.
Who attended the event?
Around 60 participants attended, representing government agencies, private-sector actors, NGOs, and knowledge institutions.
What role did the Dutch Embassy play in the event?
The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands hosted the sharing session and commissioned the research that informed some of the presentations.
As Indonesia continues to explore sustainable land-use practices, will initiatives like this sharing session prove vital in fostering collaboration and driving the adoption of agroforestry on a wider scale?
