inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman emphasized that the Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG) is a strategic government program to prepare a healthy and superior young generation of Indonesians while simultaneously encouraging rural economic growth by strengthening the national food sector.

"This (MBG) is an investment for our children and grandchildren, and it is a driver of the village economy, driving the horticultural economy, vegetables, chicken farmers—all from upstream to downstream," explained Andi on Friday (4/10/2026).

He explained that the program focuses on fulfilling the nutritional needs of children as a crucial step in improving the quality of Indonesia's human resources.

According to him, the program is not driven by short-term political interests, but rather purely for the long-term benefit of creating a smarter and healthier generation.

"Politically, it's not beneficial because these kindergarten children and elementary school children still won’t be able to participate in the 2029 elections, right? This program is purely the President's (Prabowo Subianto) initiative for the future generation to be smart and well prepared," explained Minister Andi.

He considered the government's attention to children experiencing malnutrition to be an important step, considering that stunting in Indonesia remains relatively high and needs to be addressed seriously.

The MBG helps reduce stunting rates by providing adequate nutrition for children, especially in areas that still face limited access to nutritious food.

Andi emphasized that this effort demonstrates the government's concern for the nation's future, ensuring every child has the opportunity to grow and develop optimally.

He also emphasized that the program is also part of the government's commitment to creating social justice, especially for children from underprivileged families who need nutritional support.

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