President Prabowo emphasized that the MBG has had a direct impact on economic activity in society. “With the MBG, our economy is alive everywhere. People need eggs, meat, vegetables, milk, and fish. Our economy is thriving, and our farmers are earning an income,” he said.
He also emphasized that the government’s support is being accelerated through this policy. “We’re distributing it to the people. What’s wrong?” “As a form of commitment to providing economic justice,” he added.
Furthermore, the Head of State described the Free Nutritional Meal Program (MBG) as a development strategy that stems from the economic roots of the community. He assessed that this program encourages household consumption while simultaneously stimulating the village and sub-district economy.
“Free nutritious meals have encouraged increased household consumption, at the lowest levels of our economy,” said Prabowo.
With a beneficiary base reaching tens of millions of people, the government views the MBG as concrete evidence of the state’s presence in meeting the people’s basic needs. “We have fed tens of millions of people and will continue to do so until it is completed,” he emphasized.
Support for this program has also come from within the government. The Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment, Muhaimin Iskandar, assessed that the MBG has a significant multiplier effect.
“The Free Nutritional Meal Program is a strategic investment for the nation. It is not only our commitment to the younger generation who possess superior human resources, but also has a tangible economic impact,” said the Coordinating Minister for PM.
According to him, this program is a concrete example of budget policy that favors the people, where every state expenditure is directed to provide a direct and Equitable distribution.
“This budget policy is one of President Prabowo’s commitments, shifting the government’s work orientation to achieve prosperity and welfare. A budget policy that has a direct impact is very appropriate through the MBG program, which will benefit many,” said Coordinating Minister Muhaimin.
Similarly, Amirullah Hijrian, Chairman of the Central Jakarta Branch of the Indonesian Muslim Youth, views the MBG as a form of economic defense for the people. This program is considered capable of strengthening the economic independence of the community from the grassroots level, while simultaneously creating a production and distribution ecosystem that involves local businesses.
“When the state purchases food items such as rice, vegetables, and eggs from local markets, a real economic cycle occurs. Farmers, traders, and small business owners receive guaranteed demand,” explained Amirullah.
According to him, the MBG program has the potential to open business opportunities, create jobs across all ages, and encourage innovation in the food sector. This program not only has short-term impacts but also lays the foundation for future economic strength.