inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. President Prabowo Subianto emphasized the importance of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program to address hunger and meet the nutritional needs of the community, especially children.

"There are also those who disagree with MBG. Those who disagree should come here. Ask the farmers and fishermen. Is MBG necessary or not? Ask the children, is MBG necessary or not?" asked President Prabowo, Wednesday (6/24/2026).

He said that food needs are a fundamental issue that must be the government's concern.

"They say there are smart people who say there's something more urgent than a hungry stomach. I don't think there's anything more urgent than a hungry stomach," said President Prabowo.

He said various international organizations have warned of the potential for increasing global hunger in recent years. According to President Prabowo, the number of people experiencing hunger worldwide continues to rise, so every country needs to strengthen its domestic food security.

He said Indonesia is currently in a better position as national food production has improved and is starting to record surpluses in several commodities.

President Prabowo stated that this situation allows Indonesia to assist other countries in need of food and fertilizer supplies. 

In addition to improving public nutrition, the MBG program is also considered to support the absorption of domestic agricultural and fishery products.

He emphasized that the government will continue to maintain national food security as part of its efforts to protect the public from the threat of a global food crisis.

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