Rio de Janeiro — Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto explained why the largest allocation in Indonesia’s state budget (APBN) is directed toward education during his address at the first session of the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Monday (11/18) local time or Tuesday afternoon WIB.

“In my budget, I allocate a very large percentage to education. I believe that education will lead us out of poverty,” Prabowo stated.

Prabowo emphasized that for a country like Indonesia, tackling poverty and hunger is critically important for national interests. Therefore, he allocates the largest portion of the APBN to education.

“Education can provide a better life for our people,” he said.

In front of the G20 member country leaders, Prabowo highlighted the significance of the free nutritious meal program for children as an essential part of the government’s strategy to eradicate hunger and poverty.

“Free meals for our children are a key part of our strategy. It is also a way to empower our younger generation to understand the benefits of education,” said Prabowo.

Prabowo expressed optimism that the government could address hunger in Indonesia, where currently, 25% of children experience hunger daily.

Additionally, the President committed to addressing food shortages within three years, achieving food self-sufficiency in four years, and contributing to the global alliance against poverty and hunger within five years.

“We are very optimistic that we can overcome hunger in Indonesia. I plan to resolve food shortages in three years, achieve energy self-sufficiency in four years, and in five years, we are confident in contributing to the global alliance against poverty and hunger,” he explained. (RR)