Headline: President Prabowo‘s Personal Funds Still in Use for Free Meals Program in Some Regions
Article:
The Indonesian Presidential Communications Chief, Hasan Nasbi, has confirmed that some regions are still using personal funds from President Prabowo Subianto to operate the free meals program. The initiative, officially launched simultaneously in 26 Indonesian provinces, aims to provide balanced meals to children, pregnant women, and other vulnerable groups.
Nasbi admitted that certain areas, like Kendari, are still utilizing leftover funds from the initial trial stage, which were provided by the president. Once these funds are exhausted, the program will rely on the allocated Rp 71 trillion from the State Budget (APBN), he assured.
Political analyst Hendri Satrio has urged President Prabowo’s administration to ensure the smooth continuity of the free meals program. He suggested that the government could seek support from the public, whether financial or otherwise, given Indonesia’s top ranking in global charitable giving, according to the World Giving Index (WGI) 2024 report.
However, Satrio warned that public assistance should not be solicited without reciprocal benefits, such as improved law enforcement and reduced corruption. He cited the incongruous 6.5-year prison sentence for a Rp 300 trillion corruption case as an example of the need for stricter penalties.
President Prabowo’s free meals program is a flagship initiative worth Rp 71 trillion from the APBN 2024, targeting around 19.47 million beneficiaries. Since its inception during the presidential campaign, the program has gained significant traction. As the program gains momentum, the government is exploring ways to ensure its sustainability and positive impact on Indonesian society.
