Prabowo enjoys Free Nutritious Meal with students in Tabanan
President Prabowo Subianto enjoyed a lunch featuring the special Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) menu alongside students of Sekolah Rakyat Menengah Pertama (SRMP) 17 Tabanan, Bali, during a school inspection on Sunday. According to the Indonesian Government Communication Agency (Bakom), the moment occurred after the President delivered a briefing to students and parents at the school.
“Report! Lunch is ready to be served,” one student announced, leading the report to President Prabowo, to which the President replied, “Proceed!”
The President then moved to the dining area used by the students. He took the opportunity to engage in brief conversation with the students, asking about their origins and living arrangements on the island of Bali. Sitting amongst the students and guardians, the President joined them in eating the nutritious meal, which was well-received by the students.
In his address, President Prabowo emphasised that ‘Sekolah Rakyat’ (People’s School) represents the state’s presence in assisting those most in need, particularly children from low-income families, to ensure they obtain proper access to education. The primary objective of the programme is to provide better opportunities for marginalised groups who have historically faced various limitations.
“Indeed, we established Sekolah Rakyat to help those who are most struggling, those who are most disadvantaged,” stated Prablant.
The President also highlighted the high level of public enthusiasm for the Sekolah Rakyat programme. Based on reports received, the number of applicants for SRMP 17 Tabanan has reached approximately 400 students, while the school’s current capacity is only around 270 students. Addressing this situation, the President instructed both the central and local governments to immediately find solutions so that more children can access education through the programme. “This means we must expand as quickly as possible; we will endeavour to work with regents, and if necessary, the central government will seek land. We will make every effort,” said Prabowo.