The Indonesian government is scaling back President Prabowo Subianto’s flagship free nutritious meal programme following weeks of nationwide protests demanding its complete suspension. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa confirmed the decision, stating that the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) initiated the reduction to ensure budget security, though he noted the programme remains a “good programme” that requires improved implementation.
Why is the programme’s budget being reduced?
The decision follows significant public pressure and protests across the country. While the Finance Ministry approved the cuts, Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa clarified that he “did not propose” the reduction himself. Instead, the initiative originated from the leadership of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), which manages the programme.
According to Deputy BGN head Agustina Arumsari, the agency is “refocusing” beneficiaries to ensure meals reach those who “actually need them.” This strategy is intended to allow the benefits of the programme to be felt optimally despite the budget changes.
How does the new budget compare to original plans?
The programme’s funding has undergone several adjustments this year. While a full-scale implementation would cost the state approximately 335 trillion rupiah annually, the current budget is significantly lower. The following table outlines the shifts in planned spending:
| Budget Phase | Amount (Rupiah) |
|---|---|
| Full Scale Estimated Cost | 335 trillion |
| Original 2024 Allocation | 268 trillion |
| Current Annual Budget | 228 trillion |
Agustina Arumsari reported on June 18 that the budget had been cut twice this year, totaling a reduction of 39.62 trillion rupiah. When asked if the total cut might reach 40 trillion rupiah, Minister Purbaya responded with “maybe.”
What happens next for the free meal programme?
The BGN is expected to provide a detailed announcement regarding which specific items or components of the programme will be scaled back. Minister Purbaya declined to elaborate on these specifics, leaving the details to the agency’s leadership.
“All that’s left to do is improve the implementation,” Purbaya said.
As the agency continues its “refocusing” efforts, the programme may see a shift in how recipients are selected. Previous reports indicated the government was weighing a significant cut, a move that aligns with the current efforts to secure the national budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who initiated the decision to cut the programme’s budget?
The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) initiated the cut, according to Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa.
How many people is the programme intended to serve?
The programme aims to feed 83 million schoolchildren, pregnant mothers, and other recipients.
How much has the budget been reduced so far this year?
The budget has been cut twice this year by a total of 39.62 trillion rupiah, according to Deputy BGN head Agustina Arumsari.
