PRABOWO LUNCH AGENDA: A CATALYST FOR ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION IN INDONESIA
Buyung Libna Basunjaya (a*), Dicky Perwira Ompusunggu (b)

a), b) Faculty of Economics and Businesss - INTEREST, University of Palangka Raya, Jalan Hendrik Timang. Palangka Raya City, 74874, Indonesia
*buyunglibna[at]gmail.com

Abstract

This study investigates the economic implications of Indonesia Free Lunch Program initiated by Prabowo Subianto and Gibran Rakabuming Raka. The program aims to provide daily meals for school children, with the goal of enhancing nutrition and boosting consumer confidence. The main objective is to assess the potential impacts of the program on key economic indicators, including GDP, food inflation, and consumer price indices (CPI). Using forecasting techniques, such as ARIMAX models, the study compares past and current data to predict the economic outcomes for 2024 and 2025. The analysis reveals that while the Free Lunch Program can boost short-term consumer confidence and economic growth, it poses significant risks to fiscal sustainability, especially in terms of inflationary pressures and food supply shortages. The conclusion highlights the importance of implementing strict anti-corruption measures and exploring alternative social security initiatives to mitigate these risks. Policy suggestions include focusing on transparency, fiscal management, and alternative social programs such as direct cash transfers or food vouchers to ensure long-term economic stability

Keywords: Free Lunch Program- fiscal sustainability- food security- economic impact

Topic: Development economics