Jakarta – Chairman of the National Economic Council (DEN), Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, emphasized that foreign investors’ interest in the Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG) is very high. One party that has shown interest is the Rockefeller Foundation, a non-profit foundation from the United States.
“They are very enthusiastic about helping, and we will discuss further the details of this collaboration,” said Luhut at the Bloomberg Technoz Economic Outlook event at Soehanna Hall, South Jakarta.
Luhut revealed that discussions had been held with representatives of the Rockefeller Foundation in Bali and Jakarta. In addition, discussions with President Prabowo Subianto are also ongoing to ensure that the program’s implementation runs optimally.
According to Luhut, collaboration with foreign investors will focus on management and distribution so that the benefits of the MBG program can be felt evenly throughout Indonesia. A good management system will accelerate the reduction in stunting and poverty rates, as well as improve people’s welfare.
“What we need now is proper management so that distribution is even,” he said.
Furthermore, Luhut said that the MBG program will have a positive impact on national economic growth, as has been proven in 130 other countries that have implemented similar programs.
In terms of budget, Luhut emphasized that MBG funding is not constrained. The government has allocated IDR 71 trillion in the 2025 State Budget, with the potential for an increase of up to IDR 100 trillion, so that the total budget could reach IDR 171 trillion.
“Funding is not a problem, our State Budget is sufficient to support this program,” he said.
In addition to collaborating with non-profit foundations, the government also ensures that the investment climate in Indonesia is conducive to investors. Luhut encouraged investors not to hesitate to invest in the country, with the guarantee that the government is ready to assist in resolving licensing and bureaucratic obstacles.
“If there are obstacles in licensing or other matters, do not hesitate to contact my office. We want to create transparency and ensure that investment runs smoothly,” he explained.
In closing, Luhut emphasized that the government is fully committed to overseeing the MBG program so that it runs according to target. Support from various parties, including investors, is expected to further strengthen the success of this program in improving community welfare.
