Prabowo made the remarks at the inauguration and groundbreaking of 1,179 Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) and the launch of 18 National Police food security warehouses in Palmerah, West Jakarta.
He said the government has built 23,000 SPPG units across Indonesia’s 38 provinces to support the program’s expansion.
“That number is roughly equivalent to feeding the entire population of South Africa every day, or 10 times Singapore’s population, or twice Malaysia’s population each day,” Prabowo said.
He described the MBG program as part of the administration’s broader push to improve human capital and ensure adequate nutrition, particularly for children and vulnerable communities.
The president acknowledged that the program has faced criticism since its launch but said the rising number of beneficiaries demonstrates the government’s commitment to implementing what he called a key national strategic initiative.
Prabowo said the government aims to expand coverage to more than 80 million people and will continue strengthening service infrastructure by adding more SPPG units nationwide.
“God willing, we will reach more than 80 million,” he said.
Earlier on Friday, Prabowo attended the inauguration and groundbreaking ceremony for the 1,179 SPPG units and the launch of the 18 police-run food security warehouses in West Jakarta.
He praised the National Police (Polri) for supporting the free meals program, saying the institution had recognized what he described as a crucial issue for the nation’s survival.
According to Prabowo, National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has demonstrated a broader understanding of public security, linking it to people’s sense of safety, well-being and hope.
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Translator: Maria/Andi, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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