Prabowo to Meet Gates, Discuss Indonesia's Free Meal Program

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to meet with Bill Gates on May 7, 2025, following an invitation extended by Gates to discuss Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program, which aims to improve child nutrition and reduce poverty. Gates is expected to offer support or assistance for the program, though the exact nature of his contribution has not been specified. Prabowo emphasized that the MBG program is a long-term investment for Indonesian youth and is not primarily seeking foreign aid or accolades. Government officials note that funding for the MBG program has accelerated, with a significant increase in disbursement in recent months, targeting millions of schoolchildren and other educational institutions. Prabowo stated that success would be measured by reaching 82.9 million recipients by December 2025, and the program is still in its early stages. International recognition, including Gates' interest, is welcomed, but the administration maintains that real celebration will only come once their ambitious coverage goals are met.