Indonesia Slashes Budget for President’s Free School Meals Program
Indonesia reduces budget for President Prabowo Subianto's free school meals program to 229 trillion rupiah amid fiscal concerns.
POLICY WIRE — Jakarta, Indonesia — The Indonesian government has further reduced the budget for President Prabowo Subianto’s free school meals program from 268 trillion rupiah to 229 trillion rupiah (US$12.81 billion), with the possibility of additional cuts, according to senior officials overseeing the project on Tuesday.
The program, which stands as President Prabowo’s most significant and costly election campaign pledge, has raised broader concerns about Indonesia’s fiscal stability. Originally, the initiative was allocated 335 trillion rupiah for the fiscal year 2026, with a goal to provide free meals to students nationwide.
Senior officials indicated that the budgetary adjustments are part of a broader effort to manage the nation’s fiscal resources more effectively. The program’s initial allocation has been a focal point of debate, with critics arguing that the financial commitment could strain the country’s fiscal health.
Despite the cuts, the government remains committed to the program’s objectives, aiming to ensure that students receive adequate nutrition to support their educational development. However, the reduction in funding may impact the program’s scope — and reach.
The decision to cut the budget further underscores the challenges faced by the Indonesian government in balancing electoral promises with fiscal responsibility. As the nation navigates these complexities, the implications for both the education sector and the broader economy remain significant.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
