Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka Urges Regional Leaders to Ensure Food Security for Free Meal Program
In a recent address at the Military Academy in Magelang, Central Java, Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka emphasized the critical need for regional leaders to secure sufficient food stocks to support the government’s Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program. The success of vital initiatives, such as the free meal program and stunting eradication, hinges on the collaborative efforts between central and regional authorities. Rakabuming stressed the importance of monitoring and bolstering infrastructure, supply chains, and the distribution of MBG to ensure the effective implementation of these priority programs.
Supporting Priority Programs and Eliminating Stunting: A Call to Action
During the briefing, Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka underscored the significance of supporting key government initiatives, including free nutritious meals, downstreaming, energy self-sufficiency, food self-sufficiency, and job creation. By prioritizing these programs, the government aims to address pressing issues such as malnutrition and poverty. Rakabuming also highlighted the government’s commitment to eradicating stunting by providing supplementary food to pregnant women and children under the age of five. This targeted approach seeks to improve the nutritional status of vulnerable populations and achieve the national stunting elimination target.
Promoting Tolerance and Unity: Learning from Singkawang’s Example
In addition to emphasizing the importance of food security and nutrition initiatives, Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka urged regional leaders to uphold and promote tolerance within their communities. Drawing inspiration from Singkawang city in West Kalimantan, Rakabuming highlighted the city’s exemplary practices in fostering unity and diversity. He encouraged other regions to emulate Singkawang’s inclusive approach to social harmony, emphasizing the pivotal role of local leaders in maintaining peaceful coexistence among diverse populations.
Historic Swearing-in Ceremony and Leadership Retreat: A Unifying Moment for Indonesia
On February 20, 2025, President Prabowo Subianto presided over a landmark event at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta, where 961 regional leaders were inaugurated following the 2024 local polls. This mass swearing-in ceremony united 33 governors, 33 deputy governors, 363 district heads, 362 deputy district heads, 85 mayors, and 85 deputy mayors, marking a significant milestone in Indonesia’s governance. The diverse cohort of leaders symbolized the country’s commitment to inclusive leadership and democratic principles. Subsequently, some newly inaugurated regional leaders participated in a retreat at the Military Academy from February 21 to 28, engaging in strategic discussions and capacity-building activities to enhance their governance skills.
As Indonesia moves forward with its national priorities and regional development agendas, the collective efforts of central and local authorities play a pivotal role in advancing social welfare, economic prosperity, and sustainable growth. By fostering collaboration, promoting tolerance, and supporting critical programs like the Free Nutritious Meals initiative, Indonesia aims to build a resilient and inclusive society that prioritizes the well-being of its citizens. The commitment of regional leaders to these shared goals will determine the success of Indonesia’s transformative journey towards a brighter future.
