Indonesia Launches Groundbreaking Nutritious Meals Program for Millions of School Children
Oru Leonard
In a historic move, Indonesia has on the 6th of January, 2025 launched its ambitious Nutritious Meals Program, aimed at providing free, nutritious meals to millions of school children across the country. This initiative, spearheaded by President Prabowo Subianto, is part of his administration’s efforts to combat malnutrition and promote healthy eating habits among Indonesia’s underserved communities.
The program, also known as Makan Bergizi Gratis (MBG), is expected to benefit over 80 million children, making it one of the largest school meal programs in the world. According to Philips J. Vermonte, Presidential Communication Office Spokesperson, “For the first time in the history of independent Indonesia, a universal government-subsidized program will provide millions of our students with rich nutritious meals, processed with high standards of hygiene.”
The program has received widespread endorsement from international organizations, including the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the World Food Programme (WFP), and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). These organizations have praised the initiative as a crucial step towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 2 on Zero Hunger and Goal 3 on Good Health and Well-being.
Key features of the program include high-quality, balanced meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients, nutritional education, and partnerships with local stakeholders to manage food waste and promote sustainable agriculture. The program also aims to empower local farmers and promote social inclusion.
As Indonesia embarks on this ambitious initiative, it is clear that the country is committed to investing in the health, well-being, and education of its children. With the support of international partners and the dedication of the Indonesian government, this program has the potential to transform the lives of millions of children and contribute to a brighter future for the country.
