Magelang — Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto emphasized the importance of the Free Nutritious Meals program, asserting that the future of the nation relies on the wellbeing of Indonesia’s children, the next generation. He stated firmly that no Indonesian citizen, especially children, should go hungry.
Prabowo made this point during an exclusive interview titled “President Prabowo Subianto Speaks with Retno Pinasti,” quoted on Monday (October 28).
“As a nation rich in resources, we have the means to ensure our people are well-fed. So, if anyone does not support this principle, they shouldn’t associate with me—let alone join my administration. I’m being very clear. To me, this is a matter of principle,” Prabowo stated emphatically.
Prabowo further revealed that extensive calculations had been conducted, and he referenced similar successful initiatives in other countries, specifically India.
“We’ve done the math. Other countries have been implementing this program for a long time. India took the leap, even with a per capita income that’s half of Indonesia’s. They dared to do it, and they’ve been doing it for over a decade,” he noted.
He went on to explain that the Free Nutritious Meals program is expected to create a ripple effect, benefiting local economies and boosting community income.
“Experts say that if we proceed with this program and source the supplies locally—in districts, sub-districts, and villages—it will drive income growth for our people,” Prabowo elaborated.
“Farmers and producers will have a guaranteed market for their goods. Every day, we need eggs, vegetables, chicken, fish, and rice. It’s extremely beneficial. Imagine the amount of money circulating from district to local regions, all the way to the provincial level—this is wealth that will flow directly to the people,” Prabowo concluded. (RR)
