Empowering Students: Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals Program for Character Development in East Java

The Indonesian Government offers a Free Nutritious Meals program aimed at improving students’ nutrition and character. Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu’ti, highlighted this initiative during the distribution of 172,000 free lunches to students in East Java’s Muhammadiyah schools.

Mu’ti noted that the program teaches students valuable lessons. They learn to queue politely for food and to be considerate by not taking too much from the buffet. Students also develop independence by washing their own plates and cutlery after meals.

The minister emphasized the importance of nurturing discipline, tolerance, independence, and responsibility among the younger generation. He announced a new program called the “Seven Habits of Outstanding Student,” set to launch in early 2025. This program will encourage students to form good habits, including waking up early, sleeping early, practicing religion, exercising, studying, eating healthy food, and having a positive social attitude.

How does the “Seven Habits of Outstanding Student” initiative support character development alongside the Free Nutritious Meals program?

Interview with Minister Abdul Mu’ti on the Free Nutritious Meals Program

Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Minister Mu’ti. Could you start by explaining the motivation behind the Free Nutritious Meals program?

Minister Abdul Mu’ti: Thank you for having me. The primary motivation for this program is to improve students’ nutrition, which is essential for their overall development. We know that proper nutrition directly affects a child’s ability to concentrate and learn effectively. By providing free nutritious meals, we not only address hunger but also aim to cultivate a positive environment that fosters character development.

Interviewer: During the recent distribution of 172,000 free lunches in East Java’s Muhammadiyah schools, what feedback did you receive from students and teachers?

Minister Abdul Mu’ti: The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Students have expressed joy and gratitude for the meals, and teachers noted that the program is creating a sense of community. The children are learning important social skills, such as queuing politely and being considerate about portion sizes. This aspect of the program is just as important as the nutrition itself.

Interviewer: You mentioned that students are also encouraged to wash their own plates and cutlery. How does this practice contribute to their character development?

Minister Abdul Mu’ti: This practice instills responsibility and independence in students. By taking care of their own dishes, they learn the value of personal accountability and respect for shared spaces. These lessons are foundational when it comes to building discipline and fostering positive behaviors that will serve them well into adulthood.

Interviewer: Alongside the Free Nutritious Meals program, you are launching the “Seven Habits of Outstanding Student” initiative in 2025. Can you elaborate on this?

Minister Abdul Mu’ti: Absolutely. The “Seven Habits of Outstanding Student” initiative aims to instill essential habits that contribute to a well-rounded individual. These include waking up and sleeping early, practicing religion, regular exercise, healthy eating, diligent studying, and fostering a positive social attitude. By embedding these habits into their daily lives, we hope to create a generation that is disciplined, resilient, and more prepared for future challenges.

Interviewer: This initiative coincides with the 112th anniversary of Muhammadiyah. How does this align with the organization’s broader mission?

Minister Abdul Mu’ti: Muhammadiyah has always been committed to promoting education and welfare. Our free lunch initiative and the developed character programs are directly aligned with our mission to foster not just educated individuals, but also responsible citizens. We believe that education goes beyond academics; it encompasses all aspects of a child’s development—social, emotional, and ethical.

Interviewer: As you look forward to implementing these programs, what are your hopes for the impact on future generations?

Minister Abdul Mu’ti: My hope is that these initiatives will create a generation of students who are not just successful in their studies but also embody values such as discipline, empathy, and responsibility. We want them to be equipped not just academically, but also socially and morally, so that they can contribute positively to society. It’s about building a brighter future for Indonesia through our youth.

Interviewer: Thank you, Minister Mu’ti, for your insights on these impactful initiatives. We look forward to seeing their positive effects on students across Indonesia.

Minister Abdul Mu’ti: Thank you for the opportunity to share this important information. Together, we can make a difference in our children’s lives.

This event included 1,039 Muhammadiyah schools and 1,731 pre-schools managed by Aisyiyah, marking the 112th anniversary of Muhammadiyah. The distribution of free lunches aligns with their commitment to student welfare and character development.