Indonesia’s Ambitious Plan to Boost Dairy Cattle Imports for Free Meal Program
In a groundbreaking move, Indonesia’s Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Sudaryono, has revealed that the government is set to import a staggering 200,000 dairy cattle by the end of 2025. This bold initiative aims to bolster the supply of milk for the free nutritious meal program (MBG) menu, a vital component of the nation’s efforts to combat stunting, poverty, and boost the economy.
Government’s Strategic Import Regulation and Investment in Milk Processing
Sudaryono disclosed that the import regulation for the dairy cattle has been finalized, enabling procurement not only from Australia but also from other countries. Speaking at the Presidential Palace, he highlighted the importance of this move, stating, “We hope that in 2025, some 200 thousand dairy cattle will be imported into Indonesia.” This strategic decision aligns with the government’s investment strategy, as they plan to establish a state-of-the-art milk processing factory using the imported cows.
Additionally, the government is expediting the allocation of land for farmers to accommodate these dairy cattle, emphasizing their commitment to boosting the dairy industry in Indonesia. The involvement of 160 foreign and domestic companies in this procurement initiative underscores the significant interest and support from various stakeholders.
Arrival of Pregnant Dairy Cows and Support for MBG Program
In a significant development, 50 pregnant Frisian Holstein dairy cattle from Australia have already arrived in Indonesia, marking the beginning of this transformative initiative. Agung Suganda, the ministry’s Director General of Animal Husbandry and Animal Health, expressed optimism about the cows’ contribution to the MBG program championed by President Prabowo Subianto. This strategic move is in line with the ministry’s blueprint plan to enhance investor engagement and increase the dairy cow population in Indonesia, aiming to add one million dairy cattle over the next five years.
The introduction of these pregnant dairy cows not only signifies the government’s commitment to enhancing food security and nutrition but also highlights the private sector’s dedication to accelerating investment in Indonesia. The MBG program, which commenced its phased rollout earlier this year, is poised to make a tangible impact on the well-being of Indonesian communities and advance the nation’s overarching goals outlined in Golden Indonesia 2045.
By boosting dairy cattle imports and strengthening the milk supply chain, Indonesia is taking a significant step towards ensuring food security, promoting economic growth, and improving the nutritional status of its citizens. This ambitious initiative underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to addressing pressing societal challenges and fostering sustainable development for future generations.
