War in the Middle East: Indonesia aims to save over 230 billion francs on free food distributions

Reduce its free meal distribution program, that’s the track explored by Indonesia to save money. Austerity measure in the context of rising prices linked to the war in the Middle East. Meals, especially for students in schools, will no longer be served only five days a week, instead of six, starting Tuesday, March 31, explained AFP Nanik Sudaryati Deyang, a national nutrition agency official.

A work day to save fuel? The measure is expected to save about 2.3 billion dollars, according to her, more than 230 billion CFP francs. In total, Indonesia plans to achieve up to 4.7 billion dollars in savings, thus double, to protect itself from the consequences of the conflict. This was confirmed by the government on March 23. The largest economy in Southeast Asia is also considering limiting fuel use. For example, by granting a work day per week for civil servants and some public sector employees.

Meals to combat stunted growth. Launched in January 2025, President Prabowo Subianto’s ambitious free meal distribution program has experienced successive crises, including accusations of nepotism, funding delays, protests, and food intoxications. The goal of the program is to combat stunted growth, affecting more than 20% of children in the country.