Deputy Minister Ahmad Riza Patria highlighted that his ministry is set to allocate Rp1.68 trillion (approx. US$101 million) to boost guidance and mentoring for rural communities, Rp17.86 billion (US$1 million) to further reduce childhood stunting prevalence, and Rp196.26 billion (US$11.6 million) to finance the TEKAD program.
At a meeting with Commission V of the House of Representatives (DPR) in Jakarta on Monday, he pointed out that Kemendes PDT aims to mobilize around 35 thousand individuals as village mentors, curb stunting in 10 thousand villages, and target 1,110 TEKAD beneficiaries next year.
Standing among national priority programs, TEKAD is designed to empower and guide rural residents in eastern Indonesia to make greater contributions to economic growth, expand economic opportunities, and promote inclusivity.
The government also envisions the program as a strategic means to improve governance in villages and increase rural communities’ participation in capitalizing on local natural resources through appropriate technologies.
During the parliamentary meeting, Deputy Minister Patria also noted that, as outlined in the 2026 Financial Notes, the ministry’s budget ceiling had been set at Rp2.504 trillion (around US$152 million), higher than the indicative ceiling of Rp1.591 trillion listed in the 2026 Draft State Budget.
He explained that the additional Rp912.47 billion would be used to support various purposes, including the village mentoring initiative.
“We intend to use Rp101.79 billion for salary expenditures, Rp54.04 billion for office operational spending, and Rp756.63 billion for village mentoring,” he elaborated.
Related news: Indonesian city pushes stunting rate down, aims 5 percent in 2025
Related news: Indonesia ensures safety in Free Nutritious Meals for young children
Related news: Indonesia expands Kosabangsa program for regional development
Translator: Tri M, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
