Speaking with great enthusiasm, Minister Amran delivered a keynote speech before thousands of students and members of the UNS academic community, expressing deep appreciation for the university, which he referred to as his “second home” and a symbol of Indonesia’s optimism toward achieving food self-sufficiency.

In his remarks, Minister Amran expressed pride in UNS’s research and analytical capabilities, which he said are comparable to those of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

“UNS is even greater than the USDA. Last March, I received an award from UNS, and in April, the USDA predicted Indonesia’s rice production would reach 34.6 million tons. Today, “Statistics Indonesia” released the result—34.7 million tons. That means UNS is on par with the United States,” he said, greeted by enthusiastic applause.

Minister Amran emphasized that confidence in national food independence is not merely a slogan but the result of hard work, synergy, and collective optimism.

“Those who truly believe Indonesia can be food self-sufficient are the President, the Deputy Minister of Agriculture, and the Rector of UNS. And today, it’s proven—99 percent of our goal has been achieved. Within a month, we will reach full self-sufficiency,” he declared.

He also expressed special gratitude to the UNS Rector for his steadfast belief in Indonesia’s agricultural potential.

“Thank you, Mr. Rector. This university is our second home. We come here often, and a year ago, I received an award from UNS. At that time, the Rector was confident we would achieve self-sufficiency—and today, his intuition has been 99 percent right,” Amran said.

Minister Amran encouraged students to develop a fighter’s mindset and the courage to dream big and act swiftly, reminding them that change only happens when ideas are followed by concrete action.

“Ideas without action are zero. Don’t just dream—take action. Change your mindset today, because changing your mindset means changing the world,” he urged.

He also highlighted the importance of agricultural downstreaming, explaining the concept in a relatable way for students. Using coconut as an example, he illustrated how its value can increase a hundredfold when processed into products such as virgin coconut oil (VCO) or coconut milk powder.

“That’s what downstreaming means. Don’t export raw materials —process them domestically first, then export. If we do that, Indonesia will become a major global force,” he stressed.

In March 2025, UNS had awarded Minister Amran the UNS Award “Parasamya Anugraha Dharma Krida Upa Bogha” in recognition of his outstanding contribution to advancing national agricultural self-sufficiency and development. The award was presented by Rector Prof. Hartono during the university’s 49th Anniversary Open Senate Meeting.

At the time, Prof. Hartono stated that the award honors figures of integrity, leadership, and remarkable achievement, especially those strengthening national food security and fostering collaboration between academia and government.

Minister Amran concluded his address with an inspiring message, urging students to become an optimistic generation ready to shape Indonesia’s future through innovation and real action.

“Change your mindset, and you can change the world. Once you have an idea—act on it immediately. Don’t wait, because the only one who can change your life is yourself,” he said with conviction.

The event “Indonesia Punya Kamu: Power Up, Charge Your Future” at UNS became an inspiring momentum that reignited students’ enthusiasm to contribute to national development, particularly in the agricultural sector, which is now showing remarkable progress toward achieving full rice self-sufficiency.

The event also supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Goal 2 (Zero Hunger), Goal 4 (Quality Education), and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). HUMAS UNS

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Recognizing Leadership and Contributions

Prof. Hartono emphasized Dr. Andi Amran Sulaiman’s exceptional leadership, integrity, and dedication to Indonesia’s agricultural sector. He stated that these qualities made Dr. Andi the right choice for the award. His efforts have contributed significantly to national food security, sustainability, and economic growth. Under his leadership, Indonesia’s agricultural production index has increased significantly. This growth has reinforced the country’s position as a key player in the global agricultural market.

“UNS grants the UNS Award to national figures who demonstrate remarkable dedication, integrity, and contributions to the country. The university particularly recognizes individuals whose work aligns with its mission,” Prof. Hartono stated.

He further explained that this recognition aligns with UNS’s commitment to supporting food security and self-sufficiency initiatives. The university actively collaborates with the Ministry of Agriculture in several strategic programs. These include the Survey, Investigation, and Design (SID) initiative for new farmland development. The partnership also focuses on land optimization efforts. These efforts involve soil analysis, irrigation planning, and land use recommendations, ensuring that Indonesia’s agricultural resources are utilized efficiently.

Additionally, UNS plays a crucial role in agricultural research and innovation, contributing scientific findings that support government policies. The university fosters technological advancements and sustainable practices through various academic and field programs. These initiatives benefit both farmers and the national economy.

A Prestigious Recognition for Agricultural Advancements

Dr. Andi Amran Sulaiman expressed his deep gratitude upon receiving the award. He also reaffirmed his commitment to advancing Indonesia’s agricultural sector.

“We are truly honored by this recognition. It serves as both motivation and responsibility to continue working towards a sustainable and competitive agricultural industry,” he stated.

With this award, Dr. Andi Amran Sulaiman joins a distinguished group of national figures recognized by UNS. The UNS Award 2025 highlights the significant role of agriculture in national development. It also underscores the importance of leadership, innovation, and collaboration in achieving a self-sufficient and globally competitive Indonesia.

HUMAS UNS

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A Mother’s Words That Shaped a Future Leader

During his speech, Dr. Andi Amran Sulaiman expressed deep gratitude and recalled his humble beginnings.

“I was born into poverty and raised in hardship,” he shared emotionally at the G.P.H. Haryo Mataram Auditorium, UNS, on Tuesday (11/3/2025). “But my mother always said, ‘Son, you will become a great person. You will change our fate.’ Her words still echo in my heart.”

Growing up in a rural village, he was one of 12 siblings. His father, a low-ranking soldier, struggled to provide for the family. To survive, they often searched for food in the forest.

“Many of you were born on spring beds, but I was born under a tree. I remember coming home from school, exhausted and hungry, only to find no food available. So, we scavenged for guavas and sweet potatoes in the forest,” he recalled.

The Core Values of Honesty and Hard Work

Despite financial struggles, his parents instilled in him strong values of integrity and perseverance.

“My parents always taught me to be honest and work hard. ‘Never take what isn’t yours,’ my mother would say. I hold on to that lesson to this day,” he stated.

His mother’s unwavering faith in his future was another guiding force. She always told him he would become a minister, even when it seemed impossible. Years later, her words became reality.

“I still remember her saying, ‘Son, you will be a minister one day.’ Deep down, I doubted it, but I never contradicted her. Then, one day, President Jokowi heard about a hardworking young man. That’s how I became part of the 2014 Cabinet,” he revealed.

The Power of a Mother’s Blessing

During his speech, Dr. Andi Amran Sulaiman emphasized the importance of cherishing and respecting parents, especially mothers.

“If you want to see God smile, make your mother smile. A mother plays a crucial role in shaping our journey. If you have ever hurt your mother, don’t expect success. I wouldn’t be here today without her,” he asserted.

A Prestigious Recognition for Agricultural Contributions

The Parasamya Anugraha Dharma Krida Upa Bogha award is a recognition of his remarkable contributions to Indonesia’s agricultural sector. However, he sees it as more than just an achievement—it is a responsibility.

“I keep thinking about how I will be held accountable for this, both in this world and in the afterlife. This award is not just for me, but for the people of Indonesia,” he concluded.

Based on UNS Rector’s Decree Number 851/UN27/HK.02/2025, UNS granted the award to Dr. Andi Amran Sulaiman. The honor recognized his leadership, integrity, and achievements in improving Indonesia’s agricultural production index. “We selected him for this award because he is a role model. His contributions to the agricultural sector have significantly improved Indonesia’s production index,” the UNS Rector stated.

HUMAS UNS

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