Prabowo hails police's food security role in free meals program

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto praised the National Police (Polri) for its active role in the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program, noting the initiative as evidence of commitment to the broader national food security agenda.

"I am truly pleased and delighted with the Polri, as one of the most crucial institutions for this country, for taking the initiative in a field seemingly beyond its core duties. Our police leaders have taken steps to address the issue of national survival," he remarked.

The president spoke highly of the Polri during the inauguration and groundbreaking of 1,179 police-run MBG kitchens and 18 police food security warehouses in Palmerah, West Jakarta, on Friday.

He spotlighted Polri Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, commending his awareness and understanding of the people's real needs and expectations for safety and security in a broader sense, citing equitable access to adequate food for all.

"All humansevery father and motherregardless of origin, religion, race, or ethnic groupprioritize the security and welfare of their families and children. The most basic form of security is freedom from hunger," Prabowo affirmed.

He further stressed that his administration had designed the MBG program as a pivotal instrument for achieving the greater good, an initiative widely implemented in various countries, including developed democracies.

The program, he continued, is essential to ensure family welfare, particularly for those struggling with economic challenges.

"I thank the leadership of the Polri for your achievements and service. I want you to carry yourselves close to the people as part of efforts to make our country safe, stable, and strong," he stated.

The police have demonstrated strong commitment to the MBG program with the establishment of 1,179 kitchens nationwide, of which 411 are already operating, 162 are in operational preparations, 499 are expected to complete construction in March, and 107 are about to begin development.