Prabowo to Workers: MBG is Very Important for Indonesian Children

Jakarta, VIVA – In front of a sea of workers filling the National Monument (Monas), President Prabowo emphasised that the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is highly beneficial for children in Indonesia.

Prabowo conveyed this during his speech at the International Labour Day or May Day event at Monas, Central Jakarta, on Friday, 1 May 2026.

Initially, Prabowo stated that the government has provided significant social protection to low-income communities.

“We are also providing substantial social protection. This year, we are allocating Rp 500 trillion for low-income citizens,” Prabowo said.

“We are also providing MBG. I ask you all, is MBG beneficial or not?” Prabowo asked.

On that occasion, the Head of State stressed that the MBG programme is crucial for addressing stunting issues in Indonesia. Moreover, he mentioned that MBG also boosts the economy in various regions.

“MBG is very important for our children. My fellow workers, many of our children suffer from malnutrition, with small bodies and underdeveloped cells. With MBG, our economy comes alive everywhere,” Prabowo said.

Prabowo noted that the economic impact of the MBG programme is felt even by farmers. He is optimistic that this programme will advance Indonesia.

“The people need eggs, meat, vegetables, milk, fish—our economy comes alive, farmers earn income, my fellow workers. All this money circulates. Indonesia becomes more prosperous,” Prabowo stated.