The role of vegetable farming in enhancing food security: A case study of Tasikmalaya City

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the role of vegetable farming in supporting food security and examine its spatial distribution in Tasikmalaya City. A descriptive quantitative approach integrated with Geographic Information System (GIS)-based spatial analysis was employed. Data were collected through field surveys, structured interviews, and direct observations involving 30 purposively selected vegetable farmers from Tamansari, Mangkubumi, and Kawalu sub-districts. The results indicate that vegetable farming contributes to local food security across the dimensions of availability, access, utilization, and stability, with local production meeting approximately ±42% of household vegetable consumption requirements. Spatially, vegetable production is unevenly distributed and concentrated in major production areas, particularly Tamansari, Mangkubumi, and Kawalu, reflecting the influence of biophysical conditions and regional accessibility. The distribution of agricultural yields is also closely associated with transportation networks and market accessibility, with Mangkubumi and Tamansari serving as major supply corridors to Cikurubuk Market. Field observations further reveal the adoption of container-based and vertical farming systems as adaptations to limited urban agricultural land. However, vegetable farming sustainability remains constrained by agricultural land conversion and limited post-harvest technology. These findings highlight the importance of integrating GIS-based spatial analysis into urban food security planning, particularly for agricultural land protection, production optimization, and sustainable food system development.Introduction.