President Prabowo Subianto’s flagship programs, Free Nutritious Meals (Makan Bergizi Gratis / MBG), People’s School (Sekolah Rakyat), and the Merah Putih Village/Urban Cooperatives (Koperasi Desa/Kelurahan Merah Putih / Kopdes), are regarded as “express lanes” aimed at accelerating the eradication of poverty. These initiatives have the potential to not only reduce poverty but also create numerous job opportunities and enhance economic independence, according to Head of the Poverty Eradication Acceleration Agency (BP Taskin) Budiman Sudjatmiko. The government’s focus is on empowering individuals to be economically self-reliant, with the goal of achieving poverty eradication.
Budiman used a football analogy to illustrate the government’s strategy, comparing the poor to players and emphasizing the importance of developing their skills, knowledge, nutrition, and economic opportunities. The Sekolah Rakyat program, which is based on a boarding school model, aims to break the cycle of poverty, while MBG and Kopdes Merah Putih bring economic benefits to entire communities. These initiatives are expected to create millions of jobs, benefiting various sectors such as farmers, SMEs, and village-owned enterprises.
Deputy Head of BP Taskin Nanik S. Deyang emphasized how these programs offer tangible hope for independence to poor households. She mentioned that MBG’s large-scale operations have a positive impact on local producers, leading to increased employment opportunities. Kopdes Merah Putih plays a crucial role in streamlining supply chains by eliminating costly middlemen, allowing farmers to access resources at lower prices and providing affordable credit options for the community.
In conclusion, President Prabowo’s initiatives are not just about providing social assistance but also about empowering individuals and communities to achieve economic self-sufficiency. By implementing programs like MBG, People’s School, and Kopdes Merah Putih, the government is paving the way for a more prosperous and independent future for all Indonesians.
