Reducing its free meal distribution program is the track explored by Indonesia to save money. An austerity measure that comes in the context of rising prices linked to the war in the Middle East. Meals, especially those intended for students in schools, will now only be served five days a week, instead of six, starting from Tuesday, March 31, explained Nanik Sudaryati Deyang, a nutrition agency official, to AFP.
A work day to save fuel? The measure is expected to save about 2.3 billion dollars, or more than 230 billion CFP francs. In total, Indonesia aims to save up to 4.7 billion dollars, that is double, to protect itself from the consequences of the conflict. This was confirmed by the government on March 23. The largest economy in Southeast Asia is also considering limiting the use of fuel by granting a work day a week for civil servants and certain employees in the public sector.
Meals to fight against stunted growth. Launched in January 2025, President Prabowo Subianto’s ambitious free meal distribution program has faced successive crises, including accusations of nepotism, funding delays, protests, and food poisoning. The aim of the program is to combat stunted growth, which affects more than 20% of children in the country.
