President Prabowo Subianto of Indonesia aims to transform National Children’s Day into more than just a yearly festivity. The focus is on initiating concrete, beneficial actions to safeguard the future of the nation’s children. The government has introduced three key flagship programs specifically geared towards enhancing the well-being of children: Nutritious Free Meals (Makan Bergizi Gratis/MBG), Free Health Checkups (Cek Kesehatan Gratis/CKG), and School Revitalization. These initiatives, spearheaded by Senior Expert Dedek Prayudi from the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), are designed to address crucial issues affecting children’s development.
For instance, Nutritious Free Meals (MBG) not only aims to provide children with full stomachs but also ensures they receive essential daily nutrition. Research from the Ministry of Health reveals that a significant percentage of school-aged children attend school without having breakfast, leading to focus issues and fatigue. The MBG program focuses on delivering crucial nutrients like iron that are vital for children’s growth, intelligence, and confidence. In conjunction with MBG, the Free Health Checkups for students cover various health aspects, including physical examinations, vision and hearing tests, and mental health evaluations.
These initiatives align with the constitutional rights of Indonesian citizens, including children, as stipulated under Article 28(H) of the 1945 Constitution. The School Revitalization Program, another key initiative, aims to renovate over 11,000 schools, prioritizing those in remote, underdeveloped, and densely populated areas lacking proper learning facilities. President Prabowo has allocated considerable funds from the national budget to address the urgent need to repair damaged schools nationwide.
The focus is on ensuring that all children have access to safe and dignified schools that provide a conducive learning environment. The ultimate goal is to create a golden generation by not only fulfilling children’s fundamental rights but also nurturing their overall well-being and development. Through these strategic initiatives, the Indonesian government is taking proactive steps to safeguard the future of its younger citizens.
