Analysis of Strategic Programs in Planning and Developing Cattle-Oil Palm Integration System

Abstract

Abstract The cattle-oil palm integration system refers to a farming approach that involves the integration of the plantation sub-sector and the livestock sub-sector. It can be achieved by utilizing the vacant area beneath oil palm plants to graze beef cattle. The combination of oil palm and cattle production systems has significant social, economic, and ecological standpoints. The program strategy for establishing a cattle-oil palm integration system highlights the importance of institutional involvement in supporting a priority program that has achieved success in multiple areas. The study was conducted in the Tanah Bumbu District in the South Kalimantan Province. The place selection was conducted via purposive sampling, considering its potential as a prototype for combining cattle and oil palm development. This research aims to determine the optimal approach for implementing integrated systems in oil palm plantations of various scales. The research findings on the role of institutions in the integration system of oil palm and cattle are crucial for supporting prioritized programs that have been accomplished in multiple domains. The study employed Interpretative Structural Modelling (ISM) analysis to formulate a complex policy structure based on its constituent elements, establish a hierarchy of relationships among these elements, and classify them into four quadrants (autonomous, independent, dependent, and linkage). These include the social functions and the role of institutions in facilitating coordination among different entities. By understanding the significance of institutions, it becomes possible to effectively implement programs to enhance the development of integrated systems of cattle oil palm. The ultimate goal is to bring about positive changes in welfare, participation, trust, communication, and conflict resolution among oil palm smallholders and cattle breeders involved in the cattle-oil palm integration system. In economic function, institutions influence the fluctuations observed in income, production costs, and net profit for individuals engaged in the oil palm-cattle integration system, specifically oil palm smallholders and cattle breeders. Regarding the involvement of the environment, several repercussions arise, including alterations in soil quality, oil palm plantation productivity, biodiversity within ecosystems, greenhouse gas emissions, and deforestation within oil palm plantations engaged in the oil palm-cattle integration system. As a suggestion for achieving sustainability objectives in inclusive and sustainable palm oil plantations, it is advisable to prioritize establishing effective collaboration and partnerships among all relevant stakeholders, sharing expertise and information and the concerted effort to develop robust and mutually beneficial interconnections.