free meals scheme

Indonesia's flagship free meals scheme, a key policy of President Prabowo Subianto, is currently facing significant public scrutiny and internal changes. The program has recently become a focal point for anti-government sentiment, with dozens arrested during a protest in Surabaya against fuel price hikes and the free meals initiative itself. Adding to the controversy, the head of the free meals scheme has been replaced following reports of poisonings linked to the program. While this leadership change aims to address issues, critics argue it is a superficial fix, advocating for a fundamental overhaul of the program's concept and system. The scheme's current relevance is tied to these ongoing challenges, highlighting public dissatisfaction and the need for systemic improvements to ensure its effectiveness and safety.