The Indonesian government has not scrapped its flagship free school meals programme, despite viral social media claims circulating in June 2026. While the administration has implemented cost-saving measures and budget cuts, officials from the National Nutrition Agency and the Government Communication Agency confirm the policy remains a core public mandate for President Prabowo Subianto.
Origin of the false claims
The misinformation began spreading on Facebook on June 14, 2026, via a graphic that falsely declared the programme “officially scrapped.” The image featured President Prabowo and Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, claiming the minister had replaced the meal scheme with a cash assistance programme. These posts further alleged that thousands of kitchens distributing food had been forced to close. Similar versions of this graphic appeared across Instagram and Threads, garnering comments from users who speculated that cash handouts might be more efficient or that funds should be redirected toward education and health sectors.
Government response to the programme
Official statements contradict the viral claims. Muhammad Qodari, head of the Government Communication Agency, stated in June 2026 that it is unlikely the government would halt the scheme, describing it as a “public mandate.” President Prabowo has also publicly defended the initiative, most notably during a speech on June 24 in Gorontalo. Addressing the National Farmers and Fishermen Week, the president asserted that solving the issue of “an empty stomach” is the government’s most urgent priority, dismissing critics who suggest other sectors require more immediate attention.
Did You Know? The free school meals programme, a cornerstone of President Prabowo’s 2024 election campaign, had provided meals to more than 61 million people by March 2026.
Budgetary adjustments and future operations
While the programme continues, the government is actively managing its costs. The National Nutrition Agency announced on June 18 that it would pause meal services during holiday periods, specifically from June 22 to July 13, 2026. Spokeswoman Agustina Arumsari stated this pause is intended to ensure “optimal benefits” and better resource targeting, with projected savings of over three trillion rupiah ($168 million). Additionally, Purbaya confirmed on June 26 that “significant” cuts have been made to the programme’s budget, though the exact figures remain undisclosed. The total 2026 budget allocation for the scheme was initially reported at 268 trillion rupiah (US$14.9 billion).
What happens next
The programme’s future will likely involve continued scrutiny. As the National Nutrition Agency has rejected replacing the scheme with cash—citing concerns over the potential for misuse—the government may continue to refine the logistics of food distribution to address ongoing corruption and food safety claims. Observers can expect the agency to apply the holiday-period freeze to future weekends and religious holidays, potentially altering the frequency and reach of the meal service as the government attempts to optimize its 268 trillion rupiah allocation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has the free school meals programme been replaced by cash assistance?
No. The National Nutrition Agency has explicitly rejected calls for a cash handout, citing the risk of misuse, and there have been no official government reports confirming the programme has been scrapped.
Why are there pauses in the meal distribution?
The National Nutrition Agency stated the freeze during the June 22–July 13 holiday period is a measure to ensure budget efficiency and to ensure resources are “more accurately targeted” toward those in need.
Has the budget for the programme been reduced?
Yes. Purbaya confirmed on June 26 that “significant” cuts have been made to the programme’s budget, though the specific amount of the reduction was not disclosed.
