Indonesia’s Free School Lunch Project to Boost GDP Growth, Says Prabowo Aide
Prabowo’s Vision for Economic Growth
Indonesia’s presumed incoming president Prabowo Subianto believes that his ambitious plan to provide free school lunches will not only feed the nation’s students but also fuel economic growth. Rahayu Saraswati Djojohadikusumo, a senior member of Prabowo’s party, estimates that the 450 trillion rupiah project will add 2.6 percentage points to GDP by 2029.
Implementation and Impact
The program will kick off in 2025, initially benefiting 24 million elementary school students. Prabowo’s goal is to reach nearly 83 million students and pregnant women by 2029. The plan includes setting up 48,000 kitchens to prepare meals, creating 2.5 million new jobs.
Financial Considerations
Despite concerns over fiscal sustainability, Prabowo’s team is exploring various funding options to minimize the burden on the state budget. This includes reallocating funds from non-core infrastructure projects and welfare programs.
Growth Prospects
Prabowo aims to boost Indonesia’s economic growth to 8% under his presidency, surpassing the 5.05% growth recorded in 2023. The plan also emphasizes sourcing ingredients from local farms to promote equitable growth.
Political Landscape
Prabowo, currently serving as defense minister, declared victory in the recent presidential election. If confirmed, he will assume office in October, ushering in a new era for Indonesia’s economic and social policies.
Conclusion
The ambitious free school lunch project led by Prabowo Subianto’s administration reflects a bold vision for sustainable economic growth and social welfare in Indonesia. By prioritizing the well-being of the nation’s students and vulnerable populations, the plan aims to not only feed the hungry but also nourish the economy for years to come.
