Is Politics Sacrificing Small Island Agriculture? The Hidden Cost of Local Elections in Maluku

Regional elections in Indonesia, including in Maluku, often become intense political battlegrounds. During each election, the issues raised by regional leadership candidates often reflect short-term political interests, sometimes neglecting the overall needs of the community. One sector that often receives inadequate attention is agriculture on small islands. This sector is the backbone of the local economy, particularly for communities living on these islands. This article will explore how local political dynamics, particularly in the context of regional elections, influence budget allocation and development policies, and how this impacts the agricultural sector on small islands.