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Indonesia Launches $28 Billion Free-Meal Program Targeting 83 Million to Combat Malnutrition

Jan 6, 2025, 07:22 AM

Indonesia has launched an ambitious nationwide free-meal program targeting nearly 90 million children and pregnant women to combat malnutrition and stunted growth. The initiative, introduced by President Prabowo Subianto, aims to address the stunting rate of 21.5% among children under five and improve educational and health outcomes. The program, part of Subianto's broader strategy to achieve a 'Golden Indonesia' by 2045, is expected to cost 450 trillion rupiah ($28 billion) by 2029, with $4.3 billion allocated for 2025. It will provide meals to 19.5 million recipients this year, including schoolchildren and pregnant women, covering a third of their daily caloric needs. The meals will include staples such as rice, chicken, vegetables, and milk, with 5,000 kitchens planned nationwide. The program targets 83 million recipients by 2029 and has received $10 billion in support from China. Critics have raised concerns about the program's financial sustainability, logistical challenges, and potential strain on Indonesia's state finances and external balance of payments. UNICEF reports that one in five children in Indonesia is stunted, highlighting the urgency of addressing malnutrition. Despite these challenges, the government has assured that economic evaluations support the program's feasibility and its potential to boost farmers' incomes and economic growth.