Sulteng boosts local food production to meet MBG needs

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - Governor of Central Sulawesi, Anwar Hafid has confirmed the Provincial Government’s efforts to boost community economy through utilization of natural resources, particularly in the mining sector. Central Sulawesi is one of the provinces rich in mineral resources, particularly nickel mines. The nickel industry downstreaming programme is expected to add value to products, create jobs, and improve public welfare. The provincial government is also promoting the development of fisheries and agriculture downstreaming as economic sources with potential for growth through agricultural, plantation, and fisheries downstreaming. Central Sulawesi is collaborating with China’s Hainan Province to export coconuts and durians. Looking ahead, Central Sulawesi aims to export processed agricultural and fisheries products such as shrimp and fish to China, creating opportunities for increased revenue and economic growth. Regarding the flagship Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, the provincial government is pushing for local production of food supplies such as chicken, eggs, and vegetables. It is estimated that the MBG programme has an annual fund circulation of Rp 6 trillion, which, if maximised through local sourcing, could stimulate the regional economy.