Indonesia: When farmers abandon rubber, oil palm is seen as a more promising option

This decision is sometimes seen as a fad. However, from the perspective of the growers, it is a rational choice, stemming from years of facing price fluctuations, intense labor, and the need for a more stable source of income. Rubber farmers harvesting rubber on people's plantations in Maringin Jaya Village, Parindu District, Sanggau Regency, West Kalimantan, Indonesia. Photo: kompas.com Price pressure and income issues For many decades, rubber has been a mainstay of farmers' livelihoods in many areas. However, over the past decade, rubber prices in the gardens have been continuously fluctuating, sometimes not commensurate with the effort and time invested. Tapping requires almost daily labor, heavily dependent on weather and garden conditions. When prolonged rains or sharp price drops occur, farmers' incomes are immediately affected, making it difficult to balance spending and financial planning. On the other hand, oil palm offers a more stable income prospect. Although not ...