The Free Nutritious Lunch Program as a Strategic Effort toAchieve Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG 2) Towarda Hunger and Stunting Free Indonesia

Abstract

Childhood hunger and malnutrition continue to be major global concerns, including in Indonesia. The
2024 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) report indicates that in 2022, nearly 10% of the global population experienced hunger, while around 2.4 billion people faced moderate to severe food insecurity.
Additionally, 148 million children under the age of five were affected by stunting. If current trends persist, it is estimated that by 2030, one in five children will be stunted [1]. In Indonesia, the 2024 Global
Hunger Index ranks the country 77th out of 127, with a score of 16.9, reflecting a moderate hunger level.
The 2022 Indonesian Nutrition Status Survey (SSGI) also reports a national stunting rate of 21.6%, which
remains significantly above the 2024 target of 14% [3]. These findings emphasize the urgent need for
strengthened, sustainable, and well-targeted interventions to combat malnutrition.
The issue of hunger in Indonesia clearly contradicts the mandate of the 1945 Constitution to educate
the nation’s life and improve public welfare. Therefore, a strong commitment from the government and
active participation from all elements of society are essential. Especially in preparing for the Golden
Generation 2045, development strategies must be concrete and actionable, not merely slogans. The
Prabowo Subianto administration, through the Astacita program, prioritizes policies such as providing
free nutritious meals (MBG) for students spanning from early childhood programs to upper secondary
education, including toddlers and pregnant women. To ensure the program’s sustainability across administrations, its legal framework must be firmly established [4].
Several studies highlight the positive potential of the MBG program. Maharani et al. view MBG as
a progressive step that can enhance social welfare and reduce hunger, especially among students and
toddlers [5]. Meanwhile, Fauzi considers MBG as part of the transformation of the modern education
system and innovation diffusion, which can help reduce social disparities and improve learning quality
through better student nutrition [6]. Furthermore, Andin et al. emphasize that MBG also reflects the
value of social justice by providing equal access to all segments of society [7].