Jakarta, Indonesia, LOGIC.co.id – President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, announced that global figure Bill Gates will visit Indonesia on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. The visit from the Microsoft co-founder is said to be an expression of appreciation for the government’s Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program currently being implemented nationwide.
The statement was delivered by President Prabowo during the Plenary Cabinet Meeting at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Monday (May 5, 2025), as part of the government’s six-month performance review.
"On May 7, global figure Bill Gates will come here. He has been wanting to meet me for quite some time — his request letter was sent as early as last November. One of his goals is to express his support and appreciation for our nutritious meal program," said President Prabowo.
Bill Gates' Support for the MBG Program
According to Prabowo, Gates’ visit is not merely symbolic but also reflects genuine support for the Free Nutritious Meal program, which aims to improve the nutritional quality of children in Indonesia.
While honored by the attention, Prabowo emphasized that the government is not yet satisfied with the current achievements. He stressed that true success will only be acknowledged once the program reaches its full target of 82.9 million beneficiaries.
"I'm flattered, but let me remind everyone: it’s too soon for praise. We haven’t truly succeeded yet. Our target is December 2025," he stated.
Prabowo also hinted that Gates may offer assistance in some form, although the exact details have not been disclosed.
"He has expressed a desire to help. But with or without support, we will continue this program because we believe it is a vital investment for our younger generation," Prabowo affirmed.
Program Will Continue With or Without Recognition
President Prabowo reiterated that the MBG program will proceed, regardless of praise or awards. For the government, the priority is ensuring the welfare of Indonesian children through access to nutritious food as part of broader poverty alleviation efforts.
"With or without recognition, this program will continue. Because we believe it’s the right step for the future of our children and our nation," Prabowo asserted.
Latest Developments in the MBG Program
Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Dadan Hindayana, reported that by early May 2025, the MBG program had reached 3.3 million beneficiaries—exceeding the initial target of 3 million by the end of April.
The next goal is to reach 6 million beneficiaries by the end of June and 22 million by the end of August. The government remains optimistic about reaching the full 82.9 million target by the end of the year.
"The April target has been achieved. We’re now focusing on reaching 6 million beneficiaries by the end of May or early June. Then in August, the goal is to serve 22 million people," Dadan explained.
The Free Nutritious Meal program has become a key national priority under the Prabowo-Gibran administration, forming part of a long-term strategy to develop high-quality human resources and strengthen national social resilience.