President Prabowo Subianto has recently announced an ambitious target to expand the Free Nutritious Meal Program (Makan Bergizi Gratis / MBG) to reach 82.9 million children all over Indonesia by the end of 2025. This initiative has been highlighted as a national priority and a matter of urgency. During the 27th anniversary of the National Awakening Party (PKB), President Prabowo shared a personal and emotional experience from his visit to Central Java, emphasizing the pressing demand for the program.
He recounted a moving encounter during his journey from Solo to Klaten, where schoolchildren and locals stood along the road, expressing their need for nutritious meals. Witnessing the enthusiasm and need for the program firsthand, President Prabowo promptly instructed his team to expedite the implementation, setting a target to reach 20 million children by mid-August.
President Prabowo expressed his belief and determination to continue expanding the program, with the ultimate goal of reaching 82.9 million children by December 2025. This significant effort has already garnered international attention, with world leaders expressing interest in learning from Indonesia’s approach to tackling child hunger and malnutrition.
While acknowledging the importance of matching optimism with tangible results, President Prabowo emphasized the necessity of accountability. He invited scrutiny and evaluation, suggesting that by the end of December or early January, he could be assessed on the progress made towards achieving the set targets.
The Free Nutritious Meal Program is an integral part of President Prabowo’s broader vision to address child hunger, malnutrition, and educational disparities. By providing every child with the necessary nutrition to learn, grow, and thrive, the program aims to create a more equitable and nourished future for Indonesia’s youth.
