Analysis of the Development Potential of Hybrid Maize as a Leading Commodity in Masaara Village, West Muna Regency

Abstrak

Maize is one of Indonesia’s strategic agricultural commodities, playing an important role in food supply, food processing industries, and livestock feed production. The increasing demand for maize, driven by the growth of the food processing and livestock industries, highlights the importance of improving productivity at the farmer level to support food security and sustainable agricultural production. This study aims to analyze hybrid maize cultivation practices, productivity levels, production inputs, and its potential for development as a leading commodity in Masaara Village, West Muna Regency, Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia. The study employed a descriptive quantitative approach, with data collected through field observations, interviews, and documentation involving hybrid maize farmers. The analysis focused on cultivation practices, the use of production inputs, farming costs, production output, productivity, and farmers’ income. The results indicate that hybrid maize cultivation in Masaara Village has considerable potential to be developed as a leading commodity, supported by suitable land resources, farmers’ experience, and government development programs. Productivity and farm profitability are strongly influenced by the use of high-quality seeds, fertilizer application, pest and disease management, as well as effective land and labor management. More intensive and efficient cultivation practices have the potential to increase productivity and farmers’ income while strengthening the contribution of maize to the local economy.