Pengembangan Komoditas Unggulan Spesifik Kawasan Transmigrasi Kerang, Kabupaten Paser Provinsi Kalimantan Timur

Abstract

This study analyzes the potential development of regional superior commodities in the Kerang Transmigration Area, Paser Regency, East Kalimantan, as part of the 2025 Patriot Expedition Program of the Ministry of Transmigration of the Republic of Indonesia. The research aims to examine strategic leading commodities and design an integrated development model to support sustainable economic transformation in the region. A mixed-methods approach was employed through spatial mapping, field observation, surveys, Focus Group Discussions (FGD), in-depth interviews, and secondary data analysis. The findings indicate that the Kerang Transmigration Area possesses diverse agricultural resources, with a strong dominance of plantation commodities, particularly oil palm; major food crops such as maize, upland rice, and tubers; as well as horticultural commodities including bananas and chili. Several villages also demonstrate substantial potential in the fisheries sector, especially in milkfish and shrimp cultivation, along with the development of microenterprises such as eco-print products, herbal preparations, and processed food products. Value chain analysis reveals that despite the abundance of natural resources, most commodities are still marketed in raw form, indicating limited local agro-industrial capacity. Key challenges include fluctuating productivity, limited access to technology, weak institutional capacity, and suboptimal market connectivity. The study proposes a strategic development framework that includes commodity zoning, business ecosystem strengthening, supply chain integration, and policy recommendations to enhance competitiveness. The results of this research are expected to serve as a reference for the government, private sector, and local stakeholders in formulating sustainable economic development strategies for the Kerang Transmigration Area.