PORTALJABAR, BOGOR REGENCY - Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto attended the 79th Anniversary of the Indonesian Air Force, Atang Sendjaja Air Force Base (ATS) held a Garut Sheep dexterity art competition or known as "Pesta Patok" at Pakansari Stadium, Cibinong, Bogor Regency.

The Regent of Bogor gave his full support to the arts and culture event as part of efforts to increase food security and empower local farmers.

Rudy Susmanto said that activities like this are real evidence of Bogor Regency's commitment to exploring and maximizing the potential of regional livestock.

He emphasized that for the past three years, the Bogor Regency Government has continued to intensify programs to support the agricultural and livestock sectors, one of which is the construction of the Jonggol Animal Market which is predicted to be the largest animal market in West Java.

"From year to year we see an increase in the quality of our breeders. If three years ago we had never won, now we are starting to show off. Even this year, Bogor Regency managed to win first place in the heavy category with a sheep weight reaching 130 kg," said Rudy.

Rudy Susmanto added that this kind of competition is not only about achievement, but also about strengthening the community's economy.

"One champion sheep can lift the economy of a family. It is possible that from one sheep, a brighter future for children can be born, such as becoming a doctor, general, or even a president," he said enthusiastically.

The Patok Party activity is also a special moment for the people of Bogor because it presents a people's party with more than 2,500 free snacks provided by local MSMEs and street vendors.

The Regent of Bogor also said that in order to welcome the Binokasih Crown procession from the Sumedang Larang Palace, which will stop in Bogor Regency.

"For this reason, we, the government, urge all ASN and the public to wear Sundanese traditional clothing on April 21, coinciding with Kartini Day," he explained.

Meanwhile, Commander of Air Operations Command I (Pangkoopsud I) Marsda TNI Mohammad Nurdin stated that the Pesta Patok activity is a form of support from the TNI AU for the national food security program. This competition was held simultaneously in 16 cities/regencies in the western region of Indonesia, from Sabang to Tasikmalaya.

"The Patok Party is not just an ordinary contest. This is a form of TNI's concern for the community, especially livestock breeders, to continue to improve the quality and spirit of livestock farming. Moreover, the economic impact is very significant, both for livestock breeders who participate in the competition and those who are inspired to start a livestock business," said Marsda TNI Nurdin.

The national competition is divided into three classes: POEL 0, POEL 1–2, and Extreme Class, with special assessments on animal weight. The first place at the national level was won by a farmer from Bogor Regency, marking the success of collaboration between the local government and farmers in producing superior seeds.

"This event confirms that the synergy between the TNI, local government, and the community can produce broad impacts, from preserving culture to strengthening the national economy and food," he said. (Public Communication Team / Bogor Regency Communication and Information Service / rka)