Prabowo Targets 8% Economic Growth by 2029 with Ambitious Social Programs
Jakarta – President Prabowo Subianto has set an ambitious target of achieving 8% economic growth for Indonesia by 2029, a significant increase from the current rate of around 5.11% as of the full year 2025 . His administration is focusing on job creation and increased purchasing power through several large-scale social and economic programs.
Key Initiatives Driving Economic Growth
Free Nutritious Meals Program (MBG)
The cornerstone of Prabowo’s economic strategy is the Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG). This program aims to stimulate economic activity through the supply chain of Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG). The government estimates the program will directly employ 1.5 million people within these units . President Prabowo envisions 30,000 SPPGs, each employing 50 individuals.
Beyond direct employment at SPPGs, the program is expected to generate further jobs through a network of suppliers providing ingredients like eggs, fruit, and meat. Each SPPG unit is projected to support approximately 5 vendors, each employing around 5 people, adding another 1.5 million jobs .
Red and White Cooperative
The Red and White Village Cooperative is another key initiative designed to bolster the village economy. With a target of 80,000 cooperatives, each employing around 18 people, this program has the potential to create approximately 1.4 million new jobs. The program aims to shorten supply chains and facilitate the sale of agricultural products from village communities.
Red and White Fisherman’s Village Program
Focusing on the marine sector, the Red and White Fisherman’s Village program seeks to increase the productivity and welfare of Indonesian fishermen. The government plans to construct up to 1,100 fishing villages by 2026. Pilot projects in Biak have shown promising results, with fishermen reporting income increases of 60% to 80% .
3 Million Houses Program
The 3 Million Houses program is expected to be a significant driver of job creation and economic activity. It is estimated that each housing unit will require the involvement of 5 workers. Accelerating the construction of 1 million houses could absorb around 5 million workers, with further economic benefits stemming from supporting industries like building materials .
School Renovation Program
President Prabowo is similarly prioritizing improvements in the education sector through a large-scale school renovation program. The government aims to renovate 300,000 school units over the next five years, believing that improved school infrastructure will enhance the quality of education. The administration is investing in digitalization, distributing interactive flat panels to schools across the country.
Looking Ahead to 2029
President Prabowo expressed confidence that these initiatives will collectively drive Indonesia’s economic growth, aiming for an average of 8% over the next decade. He has requested time from the public to implement his plan and demonstrate its success by 2029 . He stated, “This is the huge booster for economy. Everything is based on evidence I ask for time from the people, from the community. “I will prove it until 2029,”