President Prabowo Subianto emphasized the positive impact of the Makan Bergizi Gratis (Free Nutritious Meal, MBG) program during the Annual Session of the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR) at the House of Representatives (DPR) building in Jakarta. Since its launch eight months ago, the program has benefitted 20 million individuals, including school children, preschoolers, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers. The National Nutrition Agency reported that these groups now receive free nutritious meals daily.
With 5,800 Nutritional Service Units (Satuan Pelayanan Pemenuhan Gizi, SPPG) established across 38 provinces, the program has created 290,000 jobs and involved one million farmers, fishers, livestock breeders, and small and medium-sized enterprises. President Prabowo highlighted the positive outcomes of MBG, such as increased school attendance and improved student performance, underscoring its role in driving economic growth in rural areas.
MBG is viewed not only as a social welfare program but also as a strategic initiative to nurture a healthy, intelligent, and productive generation. President Prabowo referenced the United Nations’ endorsement of programs like MBG as crucial investments for a nation’s future. Early indicators of success include higher school attendance rates and enhanced academic achievement.
Indonesia’s progress with MBG has outpaced that of other nations, with Brazil taking 11 years to provide 40 million free nutritious meals daily. President Prabowo commended the nation’s capability and emphasized the importance of collective efforts in achieving goals. The Annual Session, attended by leaders of state institutions, members of the DPR and Regional Representative Council (DPD), and the entire cabinet, showcased the government’s commitment to improving the well-being of its citizens.
