Jakarta. Presidential frontrunner Prabowo Subianto is set to introduce food coupons to facilitate the implementation of a free meal program targeting expectant mothers and children once in office, a campaign official said on Friday.

The ambitious free meal program, designed to benefit nearly 83 million recipients, has emerged as a robust and appealing initiative within Prabowo’s campaign agendas.

Throughout debates with rival candidates and numerous campaign rallies, Prabowo has consistently underlined his commitment to combating stunting and malnutrition through the implementation of this program.

Anggawira, who led young entrepreneurs supporting Prabowo’s presidential campaign, outlined the strategy for the program's execution. 

“The free meal program will be implemented in stages based on our priorities,” he said in Jakarta. “We plan to adopt a distribution model that encompasses schools, pregnant mothers, or parents through vouchers that can be exchanged for free meals at registered canteens or restaurants.”

He pointed to the effectiveness of vouchers or food stamps, commonly utilized in developed countries to assist the underprivileged.

"The success of the free meal and milk program will require comprehensive support from all stakeholders -- the government, the private sector, and community members,” added Anggawira.

The initial phase will involve pilot projects in specific regions, followed by meticulous evaluations and enhancements before the program is scaled nationwide.

Recent quick counts by major pollsters have confirmed Prabowo’s decisive victory in the February 14 presidential election. The ongoing official tally by election organizers also suggests that the defense minister will secure approximately 57 percent of the vote.

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