"They ignore social issues": understanding the diversity of perspectives on plant gene technologies in Indonesia

Genome-editing (GE) technologies are often described as a promising tool for improving agricultural crops, alongside their expanding applications in food and medical research. However, as scientific advancements in GE crops accelerate, there is growing concern that these technologies may follow a similar trajectory to genetically modified organisms (GMOs)-where innovation outpaces public engagement, potentially leading to scepticism and resistance. There are also issues with innovation occurring in domains outside of their target locale, particularly where research and development for uses in the Global South is occurring in the Global North. Thus, there is an important opportunity to conduct better community engagement and technology socialisation in diverse locales. For example, in Indonesia, where food sovereignty is a national priority, understanding public and institutional attitudes toward biotechnology is essential for shaping effective policy and regulation. This paper draws on the first qualitative exploration of Indonesia's evolving regulatory landscape for gene technologies. Through interviews and media analysis, we examine the perspectives of key stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, advocacy groups, and scientists. A recurring theme in our findings is the challenge of "socialisation"-the need for broader public awareness and dialogue about gene technologies, their purpose, and their potential role in Indonesia's agricultural future. We argue that meaningful engagement must occur early in the development process, within the specific social and cultural contexts of Indonesia, to ensure that biotechnology aligns with local needs and values. By integrating social perspectives into regulatory and research agendas, Indonesia can better navigate the complexities of GE crop adoption and governance.