Prabowo Subianto Defends Free Meals Program Amid Economic Concerns
Jakarta – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has reaffirmed his commitment to the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program, despite growing concerns about fiscal pressures and the potential economic impact of the ongoing crisis in the Middle East. He maintains that the government can identify alternative areas for budget cuts without halting what he considers a crucial initiative.
The MBG program, a flagship policy of the Prabowo administration, aims to improve human capital by providing free daily nutritious food to school children, toddlers, and pregnant women. It is also intended to stimulate local economies through the procurement of food supplies from regional producers.
Addressing Fiscal Concerns
Recent economic uncertainty linked to the conflict in the Middle East has prompted calls for a reassessment of the MBG program’s budget. Fluctuations in energy prices, driven by the crisis, are expected to strain the state budget. Still, Prabowo stated he is confident in finding savings elsewhere.
“So, don’t go in the direction of, ‘Okay, if there’s a crisis, then we’ll stop MBG.’ There are still many other ways that we can save,” Prabowo said during a discussion with journalists and experts on March 17, 2026, as reported by the Presidential Secretariat. Tempo.co
Prabowo emphasized his dedication to the program, stemming from observations made during his election campaign, where he witnessed high rates of stunting and chronic malnutrition among children. He recounted meeting an 11-year-old child who appeared to be only four years old, reinforcing his belief in the program’s potential impact.
Funding and Economic Impact
Prabowo asserts that funding for the MBG program will come from budget efficiencies, stating, “Rather than the money being corrupted, it’s better for my people to be able to eat.” Tempo.co He believes the program represents a strategic investment in Indonesia’s future, improving human resources and safeguarding the nation’s long-term prospects. setkab.go.id
According to Prabowo, the MBG program is already demonstrating significant economic benefits. He cited studies by the Rockefeller Institute and the UN’s World Food Program (WFP) indicating that every US$1 spent on MBG could generate US$7 in economic activity in the short term, and potentially up to US$35 in the long term. Tempo.co
Prabowo aims to establish 30,000 MBG Public Kitchens (SPPGs), which he estimates will create 1.5 million jobs directly, with an additional 1.5 million jobs supported through the supply chain. Tempo.co
Addressing Program Deficiencies
Even as acknowledging some initial shortcomings in the implementation of the program, Prabowo stated that over 1,000 SPPGs have been closed to address these issues. He emphasized that the program is proving beneficial in many areas, particularly outside of Java. Tempo.co
Prabowo expressed confidence in the program’s success, stating, “We have the money. I stake my leadership on it, let’s see in 2029.” Tempo.co
The President also noted that his administration’s free nutritious meal program has achieved progress surpassing similar initiatives in other countries, reaching 20 million people in just months. Jakarta Globe