JAKARTA, RAKYAT NEWS – Indonesia’s National Development Planning Minister (Bappenas), Rachmat Pambudy, has stated that the government’s free nutritious meal program could provide a boost to the country’s economy by at least 0.1%. Speaking at the CORE Economic Outlook 2025 event in Jakarta on November 23, 2024, Rachmat emphasized that this initiative, which is projected to cost IDR 71 trillion, could also contribute to more equitable economic development across the nation.

The free nutritious meals program is designed to target vulnerable groups such as schoolchildren, infants, and pregnant and breastfeeding women. According to Rachmat, the program is an investment in human resources, aimed at addressing malnutrition, which continues to be a significant issue in Indonesia, particularly among these groups.

He expressed optimism that this initiative would lead to sustained economic growth and support income distribution.

Rachmat highlighted the widespread nutritional deficiencies in Indonesia, especially among expectant mothers, children under five years old, and school-aged children. “Indonesia faces a critical situation with malnutrition, particularly in the rural and underprivileged areas,” he said.

The program aims to address these issues by improving the nutritional status of these vulnerable populations, which would, in turn, enhance overall productivity.

The free meal program is expected to have a long-term impact on Indonesia’s economic development. Rachmat explained that improved nutrition would directly increase productivity, which is a key driver of economic growth. Additionally, it is anticipated that the program will help stimulate job creation and boost farmers’ income, contributing to overall improvements in purchasing power.

Indonesia’s current hunger index is a major challenge. According to the Global Hunger Index 2023, Indonesia has a hunger score of 17.6, placing it above other ASEAN countries like the Philippines (14.8), Malaysia (12.5), Vietnam (11.4), and Thailand (10.4). Furthermore, 7.2% of the population suffers from calorie deficiencies, while 26.8% of children under five experience stunting, a critical issue for the country’s future workforce.