Indonesia’s ambitious free nutritious meal program, a flagship initiative of President Prabowo Subianto, is set to expand significantly in 2025, with a staggering budget allocation of Rp 400 trillion (US$24.68 billion). This marks a nearly sixfold increase from this year’s budget of Rp 71 trillion, which targeted 17.5 million recipients. The program, managed by the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), aims to reach 82.9 million beneficiaries, including schoolchildren and pregnant women, by the end of next year.
Since its launch on January 6, 2025, the program has already provided meals to 650,000 schoolchildren across 31 provinces. President Prabowo has expressed confidence that the initiative will achieve its goal of reaching all Indonesian children by the end of 2025. “we are optimistic that this program will transform the lives of millions,” he stated. The progressive targets include reaching 3 million children by April, 6 million by August, and 15 million by September.
BGN head Dadan hindayana revealed that the government might need an additional Rp 100 trillion this year to meet the expanded target of 82.9 million recipients. “Next year, because [the target is] 82.9 million, from January to December [the budget will be] Rp 400 trillion,” Dadan said after a cabinet meeting at the State Palace in Jakarta, as reported by Kontan.co.id.The program, which has faced criticism for its potential strain on state finances, is seen as a critical step in addressing malnutrition and food insecurity in Indonesia. It aligns with President Prabowo’s campaign promise to prioritize the health and well-being of the nation’s children and mothers.
Key Details of the Free Nutritious Meal Program
Table of Contents
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Budget for 2025 | Rp 400 trillion (US$24.68 billion) |
| Target Recipients | 82.9 million (schoolchildren and pregnant women) |
| Current Reach | 650,000 schoolchildren in 31 provinces |
| Progressive Targets | 3 million by April,6 million by August,15 million by September 2025 |
| Additional Budget | Rp 100 trillion for 2025 to meet expanded targets |
The program’s success hinges on efficient logistics and coordination across Indonesia’s vast archipelago. Critics have raised concerns about the financial burden, but supporters argue that the long-term benefits of improved nutrition and health outcomes outweigh the costs.
as the program scales up, the government is working closely with local authorities and stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation. the initiative not only aims to combat hunger but also to foster a healthier, more productive future generation.
For more insights into President Prabowo’s vision and leadership, visit this profile.Stay Ahead of Indonesia’s Business Landscape with “Prospects” Newsletter
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Headline:
Unveiling the Future of Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meal Program: An Interview with Dr. Sinta Dewi, a Senior Nutrition Specialist
Introduction:
In Indonesia, President Prabowo Subianto’s ambitious free nutritious meal program is set to significantly expand in 2025, aiming to reach 82.9 million beneficiaries. We sat down with Dr. Sinta Dewi, Senior Nutrition Specialist and long-time advocate for food security, to discuss the program’s progress, challenges, and potential impact on Indonesia’s future.
1. Progress and Expansion
Can you walk us through the program’s progress since its launch in January 2025?
Dr. Sinta dewi: The progress has been encouraging. By February, we’d already provided meals to 650,000 schoolchildren across 31 provinces. The targets for April, August, and September are ambitious but achievable. We’re on track to reach all Indonesian children by the end of 2025, as President Prabowo envisioned.
What are the key milestones planned for this year?
Dr. Sinta Dewi: We aim to reach 3 million children by April, 6 million by August, and 15 million by september. These milestones will help us track our progress and make necessary adjustments along the way.
2. Budget and Resource allocation
BGN head Dadan Hindayana mentioned a potential need for an additional Rp 100 trillion this year.how will this affect the program’s implementation?
Dr. Sinta Dewi: Additional funding will help us cover operational costs and reach our expanded targets. It’s crucial for ensuring the program’s sustainability and success. We’re actively working with the finance ministry and other stakeholders to secure this additional budget.
3. Logistical Challenges and Solutions
The program’s success hinges on efficient logistics across Indonesia’s vast archipelago. How are you addressing these challenges?
Dr.Sinta Dewi: indeed, logistics is a meaningful challenge. We’re working closely with local authorities and stakeholders to improve our supply chain and delivery systems. This includes investing in infrastructure, Capacity-building for local partners, and leveraging technology for better monitoring and evaluation.
4. Long-term Benefits and Criticisms
How do you respond to critics who raise concerns about the program’s financial burden?
Dr. Sinta Dewi: While the investment is substantial, the long-term benefits—a healthier, more productive future generation—far outweigh the costs.The program aligns with President Prabowo’s vision for Indonesia and is a critical step towards addressing malnutrition and food insecurity.
5. Collaboration and Stakeholders
How is the government working with other stakeholders to ensure the program’s success?
Dr. Sinta Dewi: We’re collaborating closely with local authorities, schools, parent-teacher associations, civil society organizations, and the private sector. Their inputs and support are invaluable in making this program a success.
