The Basic Social Values which underlies Social Institutions of Farmers In The Rural Agro-Tourism Area of Central Java

This research aims to explore the basic value of social institution of farmers and find the technique of re-functionalization of social institutions of farmers. The design of this research is using a case study method based on qualitative and quantitative approach. This research is intentionally conducted in Karangreja Sub-district, Purbalingga Regency of Central Java Province. Based on the research results, The prominent basic social values in the social institutions of farmers in the Agro-tourism area tend to be still around the proximity to the production process. Three prominent basic values: (1) the basic value of perseverance in the process of production, (2) the basic value of togetherness for making decision on production, (3) the value of carefulness in sorting and grading product. Indeed the basic value of togetherness to fight for the price is high but it has not bring such a tangible results for farmers’. The authors predicted that if the socio-economic institutions are strong, they will be able to empower farmers and vice versa if the social institution is weak then the empowerment of farmers is also weak. However, it is necessary to concern that the institution which in charge of product quality, post harvest technology and marketing has not been much strengthened, so that the welfare of farmers has not changed much. Institutional strengthening in sectors that are still weak need to get more attention from various parties so that farmers become more dynamic and more empowered