Prabowo Again Hits Out at Those Opposing Free Nutritious Meals Programme

President Prabowo Subianto has once again highlighted the opposition to the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. Prabowo emphasised that hunger and nutritional improvement are among the primary issues that must be addressed immediately in Indonesia.

Prabowo made these remarks during his speech at the XVII National Farmers and Fishermen Week Summit in Gorontalo on Wednesday (24/6/2026). He was momentarily distracted by a group of people displaying a banner that read ‘Continue MBG’.

“Be patient, please. I must, I must finish my speech. Those children, well…” said Prabowo, looking towards the group.

Prabowo then touched upon parties that disagree with the implementation of the MBG programme. He suggested that those who oppose it should ask for the opinions of farmers, fishermen, and children.

“There are also those who do not agree 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?” Prabowo stated.

Criticising Intellectuals for Ignoring the Problem

Prabowo criticised intellectual groups who claim there are more pressing issues than hunger. He expressed his disagreement with that perspective.

“It is said that there are smart people saying there are more urgent matters than a hungry stomach. I believe nothing is more urgent than a hungry stomach. If a hungry person is not fed immediately, they will die,” he said.

Prabowo referenced UN data predicting a global hunger crisis. Conversely, he noted that Indonesia has successfully managed to export food.

“The UN has predicted that global hunger will be massive this year. Two years ago, around 300 million people were starving globally. It is estimated to have increased to 500 million, or even 700 million. The FAO has issued a warning. And my brothers and sisters, alhamdulillah, we have now begun to export,” he said.

Suggesting Some Do Not Want Indonesia to Rise

Prabowo was also blunt regarding parties opposing his administration. Addressing the farmers and fishermen, Prabowo expressed that he is unconcerned by those who criticise his delivery. He claimed certain parties do not want Indonesia to rise, particularly during his leadership era.

“We will rise to become a great nation. There are those who always do not want us to rise. There are. We already know who they are. Right?” said Prabowo.

Prabowo continued, stating that when speaking to farmers and fishermen, one must speak loudly to be heard. He then mimicked a softer tone of voice.

“But when speaking to farmers and fishermen, you must speak loudly. Correct? If you speak too calmly, you won’t be heard. Right?”

“My brothers and sisters, development must be carried out well. Farmers and fishermen must work hard, work hard, and must not ask for excessive profits. And we all hope that one day, in the future, the wealth that is currently enjoyed by a few will slowly trickle down,” said Prabowo, mimicking a gentler tone while mocking it. Prabowo’s action prompted laughter from the audience.

Prabowo joked that his actions might draw scrutiny. However, he stated he was unbothered because he believes the people deserve to know his true thoughts.

“Oh, sorry, sorry. Please, delete, delete. Hey, friends, our journalists are united, right? Please don’t post that. I’ll get attacked again. I don’t care. In this day and age, let us speak plainly. You would rather know my true heart, wouldn’t you? Rather than me speaking with excessive politeness. Politeness still allows for theft; politeness still allows for corruption,” Prabowo concluded.