"This program is important to realizing a healthy and strong generation," he noted in a statement from his office on Monday.
Hence, Susanto reminded that as a party with the opportunity to become a food supplier for this program, the village-owned enterprises (BUMDes) should ensure the quality and nutrition of the food.
The minister conveyed this during his working visit to Kamojing Village, Cikampek Sub-district, Karawang District, West Java, on Sunday (November 3).
During his visit, the minister called on private parties in Kamojing Village, such as fertilizer producers Pupuk Kujang and PT Mandala, as well as other parties to contribute to supporting village development and improving the welfare of the village community.
The free nutritious meal program, proposed by President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, focuses on toddlers, students, and pregnant and breastfeeding mothers.
Related news: Ministry supports BUMDes to be food suppliers of free meal program
This program is expected to reduce stunting prevalence and improve the quality of human resources.
On the same occasion, he remarked that the village plays an important role in the country's development since many residents live there.
"Almost 73 percent of Indonesia's population live in the village, including here in Karawang. Therefore, we stand with the "Developing Village, Developing Indonesia" movement. We are conducting equal, measurable, and accountable development," he emphasized.
He affirmed that President Prabowo also underscored the need to empower rural communities to contribute meaningfully to national development. By developing villages, the Indonesian people will prosper.
"We can maximize the existing potential in the country, including the natural resources and the human resources combined. We do not need to find another market, as utilizing our domestic market is enough," Susanto remarked.
Related news: Minister Susanto eyes cross-institutional ties to boost rural growth
Translator: Tri Meilani A, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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