President Prabowo: Free Nutritious Meals Program Boosts Economic Growth from the Grassroots

President Prabowo delivers his remarks at the Indonesia Economic Outlook 2026 event at Wisma Danantara Indonesia, Jakarta, on Friday (2/13). (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat)

President Prabowo outlined the positive real impacts of several Government Policies on Indonesia’s economic growth. One of the key points highlighted by the President was the positive effect of the Free Nutritious Meals program on economic growth at the grassroots level.

“The Free Nutritious Meals program has boosted an increase in household consumption and spurred growth in villages, sub-districts, and the lowest levels of our economy,” explained the President in his remarks at the Indonesia Economic Outlook 2026 event, at Wisma Danantara Indonesia, Jakarta, on Friday (2/13).

In addition to the increase in household consumption, President also highlighted the decline in poverty rates and the downward trend in open unemployment. Observing these positive trends, President was optimistic that Indonesia’s economy will grow very well this year.

“And from this lowest layer, Indonesia will rise into a dynamic economy. I believe our economy will grow very well this year,” Prabowo said.

Aside from its positive real impact on the current economy, the Free Nutritious Meals program is also viewed as a long-term economic investment for Indonesia as well as a concrete manifestation of bold steps to accelerate national development.

“I think in today’s world, this is an achievement to be proud of in terms of the management, logistics, and oversight. I think this is something that should be recorded as an accomplishment we are proud of,” he emphasized.

This underscores that Indonesia’s economic development strategy is moving toward a more inclusive model, where growth is no longer centered solely on major economic hubs, but instead strongly grows from villages, communities, and the lowest layers of society as the foundation of national resurgence. (Bureau of Press, Media, and Information of the Presidential Secretariat) (TCUD/TM)