Positive Impacts of Transfer in Agricultural Land Functions to Non-Agriculture for Farmers in Pangkalan Bun Regency

The massively-growing population causes the transfer of agricultural land functions to non-agricultural sectors in Pangkalan Bun Regency. The growth urges land availability for profitable oil palm plantations and housing. This study discusses 1) the reality of the transfer of agricultural land functions to non-agricultural sectors in Pangkalan Bun Regency, Central Kalimantan, and 2) government policies on land conversion to increase community welfare. The results point out that the land transfer to oil palm plantations has resulted in the absence of all agricultural land. Oil palm development is considered more profitable, and thus people decide to convert their agricultural lands to increase their income. In this case, the local government of Pangkalan Bun has issued several policies, namely on agribusiness and food sovereignty. The steps taken are 1) increasing the empowerment of farmers and their supporting institutions, productivity, competitiveness, and added value of agricultural, plantation, animal husbandry and fishery products, 2) improving the development of agro-industry and agribusiness to empower the people’s economy, and 3) strengthening the security of food sovereignty.