President encourages MBG to become an economic engine, from eggs to fish

JAKARTA - President Prabowo Subianto has linked the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program with the circulation of the people's economy. In front of workers, he emphasized that this program is not only about nutrition, but also mobilizes food production.

"People need eggs, meat, vegetables, milk, fish. Our economy is alive," said Prabowo during a Labor Day speech at Monas, Jakarta, Friday, May 1.

Prabowo said MBG would have a direct impact on farmers and fishermen. The need for food for the program is considered to be able to drive domestic demand.

According to the President, so far many Indonesian children are still suffering from malnutrition. The impact is not only on health, but also on body development.

"Many of our children are malnourished, their bodies are small, their cells are not developing," he said.

Prabowo said the MBG program would make money circulate within the country. He said the distribution of food would involve various production sectors.

"This money is circulating. Indonesia is stronger," said Prabowo.

He did not specify the amount of the budget or the scope of the recipients in the speech. However, MBG is said to be one of the main government programs to encourage welfare as well as economic activity.