Jakarta. The government is set to convene a meeting to discuss the proposed budget for the free meal program, a central campaign promise of prospective election winner Prabowo Subianto, a senior official said on Friday.

Prabowo has pledged to provide free lunches and milk for children and expectant mothers if elected president. Quick counts by independent pollsters and an interim official tally by the General Election Commission (KPU) indicate that the defense minister is poised to win the Feb. 14 election with around 58 percent of the vote.

While the detailed plan for the free meal program is not yet available, Chief Economic Minister Airlangga Hartarto said discussions on its budget will commence on Monday.

"The budget will be implemented in stages, but let's wait until Monday," Airlangga said.

A Prabowo presidency is expected to ensure a smooth transition of power, primarily due to his running mate, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, who is President Joko Widodo's son.

Airlangga's Golkar Party is a key member of the coalition supporting Prabowo's presidential bid.

In addition to Airlangga, Prabowo has secured backing from at least four other fellow cabinet members, including Trade Minister Zulkifli Hasan, State-Owned Enterprise Minister Erick Thohir, Investment Minister Bahlil Lahadalia, and Communication Minister Budi Arie Setiadi.

The free meal program aims to benefit approximately 80 million recipients, with phased implementation working towards full coverage by 2029.

Prabowo's campaign team said the program might adopt the food coupon system, similar to those in the United States and European countries.

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