Implementing Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) not only improves crop production but can also make a meaningful difference in farmers’ lives. This is demonstrated by Antonius Renyaan, a farmer supported by Yayasan Bina Tani Sejahtera (YBTS) in Revav Village, Southeast Maluku, who achieved a successful watermelon harvest by consistently applying GAP throughout the growing season.
While cultivating Amara F1 Watermelon, Antonius followed recommended cultivation practices from land preparation and seedling production to balanced fertilization and integrated pest and disease management. By carefully implementing each stage of the production process, he was able to grow healthy, vigorous plants and achieve an excellent harvest.
The harvest brought more than just increased production—it also provided tangible economic benefits for his family. With the income earned from his first watermelon growing season, Antonius was able to purchase a motorcycle. During the Farmers Field Day, he shared this achievement with fellow farmers with a smile.
“Even though it’s a second-hand motorcycle, I’m proud that I bought it with the income from my watermelon harvest,” Antonius said.
For Antonius, the motorcycle represents more than transportation. It is a reminder that dedication, continuous learning, and the consistent application of good farming practices can create real opportunities to improve a family’s livelihood.
His story was shared during a Farmers Field Day (FFD) held at his demonstration plot under the theme, “The Secret to Successful Farming: From Healthy Seedlings to Abundant Harvests.” The event brought together farmers from Tual City and Southeast Maluku Regency to observe firsthand how GAP was implemented in Amara F1 watermelon cultivation. Participants also exchanged experiences and discussed every stage of cultivation, from nursery management to harvesting.
Beyond serving as a knowledge-sharing platform, the Farmers Field Day strengthened collaboration among farmers and encouraged peer-to-peer learning. By seeing successful practices in action and hearing directly from Antonius, participants gained practical insights and greater confidence to adopt improved cultivation techniques on their own farms.
Through continuous field mentoring and hands-on learning, YBTS remains committed to supporting farmers in improving their technical skills, increasing productivity, and developing more resilient horticultural farming enterprises. Antonius’ journey demonstrates how consistent application of Good Agricultural Practices can lead not only to better harvests but also to meaningful improvements in farmers’ livelihoods.
