Indonesia’s free meals programme plagued by alleged corruption and waste
Summary
Indonesia’s free meals programme, started in 2025 to fight child stunting and support local communities, is facing major problems with corruption and poor management. Officials have arrested several people linked to a $56 million fraud, and the government has reduced the programme’s budget for this year to improve spending.Key Facts
- The programme is called “Free Nutritious Meals” and was launched by President Prabowo Subianto in 2025.
- It aims to reduce child stunting, improve school focus, and boost the local economy.
- Nearly 28,000 kitchens have been set up, serving up to 3,000 meals daily each.
- There have been many cases of food poisoning reported in the programme.
- The head of Indonesia’s National Nutrition Agency and two deputies were arrested for alleged fraud involving $56 million.
- Investigations now include seven people, including police and military officers.
- The government cut the 2026 budget from $18.4 billion to $14.7 billion to use funds more efficiently.
- Some kitchens are run by foundations connected to the police and military and receive daily incentive payments.
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