Indonesia’s ambitious free meal programme aims to provide daily nutritious meals to schoolchildren and pregnant mothers, addressing long-standing issues like malnutrition and stunting.
Launched as a pilot project in Warungkiara, West Java, the initiative is set to expand nationwide, potentially benefiting over 82 million people annually at an estimated cost of $28 billion.
A transformative investment in both people and the economy, the programme is designed to improve children’s nutrition, academic performance and overall development. Balanced meals ensure students receive essential nutrients at least once daily, fostering long-term health benefits and tangible educational impact. Schools report higher attendance and better engagement since the programme began.
Infant malnutrition has contributed to poor education performance in primary schools.”
– A. Anantha Lakshmi and Diana Mariska, Financial Times
