By: Gavin Asadit*
The first year of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration marks an important moment to assess the direction and achievements of national policies focused on people’s welfare. Among various flagship programs, the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program occupies a central position as a tangible symbol of the government’s commitment to the lower-income population. This program not only provides food assistance but is strategically designed to build a healthy, intelligent, and productive generation while strengthening the national economic foundation from the grassroots.
Since its launch in early 2025, MBG has reached tens of millions of beneficiaries from various social groups, particularly school children, toddlers, pregnant women, and other vulnerable groups. The government affirms that this program is a long-term investment in the nation’s future by instilling balanced nutrition habits from an early age. Government data shows that by October 2025, MBG had benefited more than 31 million people with a budget absorption exceeding IDR 20 trillion.
President Prabowo Subianto has repeatedly emphasized that MBG is a strategic investment in Indonesia’s human development. According to the President, a great nation must begin development by fulfilling its people’s basic needs, especially the nutrition of children who are the nation’s future. He stated, “This program is not just about feeding, but ensuring every Indonesian child has the opportunity to grow healthy, strong, and smart without economic barriers.” This directive indicates that MBG is not positioned as ordinary social assistance but as part of a grand vision toward food sovereignty and superior human resources development.
Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has been actively involved in ensuring MBG’s implementation across regions with the principle of equity. During various field visits, he directly inspected MBG kitchens in several provinces to ensure fair and standard-compliant distribution. Gibran stressed that there must be no disparities between urban and rural areas in terms of nutrition access.
From an economic policy perspective, the government views MBG as a program with a multiplier effect on the national economy. The procurement of food ingredients involves farmers, breeders, and small businesses at the local level. Through this approach, the funds disbursed are not merely consumption but also stimulate economic circulation at the regional level. The government also reports that thousands of MBG kitchens operate in various districts and cities employing tens of thousands of local workers, many from underprivileged families. Thus, MBG not only meets nutritional needs but also opens new jobs and strengthens the purchasing power of the lower-class community.
Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto calls MBG a pro-people program that has positively impacted poverty alleviation. He assures that the government will continue to expand coverage and ensure program sustainability through sound fiscal planning. According to him, MBG is concrete proof that social programs can be managed productively and efficiently without disturbing state budget stability.
The government also places great attention on the quality of program implementation. President Prabowo has instructed that every MBG kitchen be equipped with sterilization tools and adequate sanitation facilities to ensure the safety and cleanliness of the food served to children. The National Nutrition Agency has set strict nutritional standards, including the requirement to provide two types of side dishes daily to meet balanced nutritional needs. The Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency stresses that program implementers must not pursue profit since MBG is entirely a form of state concern for people’s welfare, not a business opportunity.
Besides social impact, MBG is also expected to create cultural change in society. The government wants people to become increasingly aware of the importance of a healthy diet and balanced nutrition. This program is accompanied by nutrition education in schools and communities to encourage long-term behavioral change. In this way, MBG not only addresses immediate nutrition issues but becomes a national movement toward a healthier, more resilient, and independent nation.
After one year of operation, various social elements assess that MBG has proven a clear commitment to the lower-income population. Success is measured not only by the number of beneficiaries but also by increasing public trust in the government’s ability to deliver policies that address their basic needs. President Prabowo repeatedly affirms that his administration will continue to prioritize programs that provide direct benefits to the community, especially in nutrition, health, education, and welfare improvement.
Looking ahead, the government commits to strengthening MBG’s governance for better effectiveness and transparency. With larger budget support in 2026, the government plans to expand the program’s reach, improve logistics, and tighten quality control. The government also intends to enhance synergy between ministries and regional governments to ensure more efficient and equitable implementation. In the government’s view, MBG is not just a social program but a symbol of national solidarity between the state and its people.
With the achievements over the past year, the Prabowo–Gibran administration affirms that commitment is not just a slogan but a real commitment realized through policies, budgets, and actions on the ground. The Free Nutritious Meals program is a tangible representation of the administration’s promise to deliver social justice, improve welfare, and build Indonesia’s golden generation.
Author is a Social and Community Issues Observer