President Prabowo Subianto has issued a heartfelt apology to parents and children awaiting the benefits of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program in Indonesia. During his visit to Sumedang, West Java, on Monday, the president acknowledged the delays in reaching all individuals, emphasizing the need for more time for the program to be fully implemented.
Challenges in Program Distribution
The newly launched MBG program faces challenges in serving all children across Indonesia promptly. President Prabowo highlighted the complexities of both physical and administrative processes, which require time to ensure the equitable distribution of benefits to children in need. He emphasized the importance of a secure process to prevent any irregularities in the allocation of funds for the program.
Commitment to Children’s Well-being
Despite the delays, President Prabowo assured the public that the funds allocated for the MBG program are readily available and will be utilized according to the necessities of the beneficiaries. He reiterated the program’s primary goal of assisting children who require nutritional support the most. The president urged those who do not need the assistance to pass on their share to those in need, highlighting his commitment to ensuring that every child in Indonesia has access to nutritious meals by the end of 2025.
Expanding Reach and Impact
Currently, the MBG initiative operates in 31 provinces in Indonesia, with 238 Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) or public kitchens actively providing meals for the program. The government aims to reach three million beneficiaries from January to April and plans to double that number to six million in the subsequent phase from April to August. This expansion signifies a significant step towards reducing stunting rates in Indonesia to 14.2 percent by 2029, reflecting the government’s shift in priorities towards improving the well-being of its citizens.
President Prabowo’s dedication to ensuring food security for all Indonesian children highlights the government’s commitment to addressing nutritional challenges and fostering a healthier future for the nation. With ongoing efforts to streamline the distribution process and increase program accessibility, the MBG initiative aims to make a lasting impact on the lives of millions of children across the country. Through collaborative efforts and sustained commitment, the vision of a well-nourished, thriving generation in Indonesia is within reach.
