"We must break the cycle of poverty through education, which builds strong human resources," he stated in Jakarta on Sunday.
He pointed to China as an example of how science-driven policymaking can elevate the quality of a nation’s workforce, and stressed that Indonesia must follow a similar path to develop excellent human capital.
The minister also highlighted that the government’s Free Nutritious Meals program—launched on January 6, 2025—is rooted in scientific principles.
The initiative targets improved nutrition for children under five, pregnant and nursing mothers, and students up to the high school level.
“With nutritious food, God willing, we can raise our IQ. High intelligence is key to building strong human resources,” he said.
He urged all stakeholders to support the free meals initiative, calling it a flagship program under President Prabowo Subianto’s leadership.
Poverty reduction remains a national priority, with Presidential Instruction No. 8 of 2025 issued to accelerate efforts to eradicate poverty and extreme poverty.
Translator: Anita Permata, Raka Adji
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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